northeast issue 21 - out! northeast magazine

Feel at homeSouth Tyneside Homes manages, maintains and improves 18,000 properties for SouthTyneside Council. We believe all of our tenants, leaseholders, employees and partnershave the right to be treated fairly and with respect. So promoting equality and valuingdiversity is an integral part of our everyday service.We care deeply about our reputation as an employer and about attracting the besttalent, regardless of sexual orientation. Which is why we are proud to have become aStonewall Diversity Champion. Helping to ensure that all of are staff are comfortableworking in an environment free from fear of bullying and harassment."I am delighted that South TynesideHomes has signed up to Stonewall. Thisis yet another aspect of our commitmentto Equality and Diversity.Concealing one's sexual orientation canreduce morale and affect productivity. Onour journey to excellence we want to assureall our staff that they will be free from allaspects of negative discrimination."Isobel Riley, Chief ExecutiveIf you’d like to learn more about South TynesideHomes' approach or get involved in helping usto improve services for lesbian, gay or bisexualpeople, contact Mark Johns on 0191 426 8396 oremail mark.johns@southtynesidehomes.org.uk

news...northernprideJoin Northern Pride, the north east’s biggestLGBT festival for its third year this July 17. Followingon from the huge festival last year, the teambehind Northern Pride are planning an evenbigger, and hopefully sunnier affair!A festival with ‘something foreveryone’ is what’s promised andover 10,000 people are expectedto join in the festivities this year.The parade kicks off from theCivic Centre in Newcastle at11.30am and makes its way toLeazes Park for the party tobegin at 1pm with the Pride picnic.There’s free entertainmentspread over 3 stages with a varietyof artists from Basshunter,Same Difference and Lisa ScottLee, to local LGBT groups and asever, your favourite drag acts.The festival continues with anumber of events throughoutJuly. One of the highlights includesthe Pride Pet Show ‘Paws withPride’ on Sunday 25th July inLeazes Park.Kai Smith, Northern Pride directorsays: Organising this year’s eventhas been a roller-coaster ride butit promises to be the biggest andmost exciting yet.We’ve listened hard to all thefeedback from last year’s festival,and as well as the highly popularcabaret stage, a new ‘2nd Stage’will provide space for a moreeclectic LGBT culture to play out.In addition, there’ll be a ‘Tea Tent’with a slightly more laid-backatmosphere, where you cangorge yourself on goodies.As a not-for-profit, volunteer ledgroup, organising the festival isa huge challenge that everyoneinvolved has risen to. The dedicationof so many volunteers isastounding and the organisersare hopeful that more volunteerswill get involved to ensure thisyear, and future events, runsmoothly and reflect all the lgbtcommunities.Full listings and details about allevents and how to get involvedas a volunteer, can be found atwww.npride.org.ukIt’s going to be great - spread theword and we’ll see you there!makingwavesNewcastle andGateshead residentsare waking up to afabulous new sound asPride Radio takes to theairwavesSet up as a not-for-profitcommunity radio station, itcaters for the currently underservedlesbian, gay, bisexualand transgender community.Broadcasting on 87.9FM inthe Newcastle/Gateshead andsurrounding areas. It’s also onlineat www.prideradio.co.ukPride Radio 87.9FM broadcasts24 hours a day from 21 June to17 July, culminating in the annualPride festival in Newcastle.Located in the city centre, inspace donated by Eldon Squareshopping centre, it features somegreat presenters, excellent musicand a chance to hear more aboutthe Northern Pride festival.Pride Radio features some wellknown names from radio in thenorth east, as well as some ofyour favourite personalities fromthe Newcastle gay scene. Aswell as keeping you entertainedwith the best music and events,the station will broadcastnews, weather and travel frombreakfast to supper.Tony Swinhoe, the station’sprogramme controller said “weknow there’s a demand for thisservice and we are sure ourbroadcast will be a success. TheLGBT community is still underrepresentedon mainstreamradio and TV, and we hope to gosome way to putting this right”.Music memories from the80s and 90s and a specialshow at the weekend with aformer Powerhouse DJ areon the playlist. Newcastle’sPowerhouse, the iconic gay clubformerly of Waterloo Street inNewcastle, was a focal point ofthe gay scene at that time.Sunday mornings see a moresedate ‘Divas’ show, whereartists such as Liza Minelli,Shirley Bassey and Celine Dionwill feature.Everyone involved in thebroadcast is a volunteer andthe station has been funded byadvertising and donations. It ishoped that the broadcast couldbecome a full-time communityradio station in the coming year,subject to funding and support.Pride Radio wants to hear fromanyone interested in helpingout. So get in touch if you’dlike to present or help behindthe scenes. The station can becontacted via e-mail at info@prideradio.co.uk6northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

news...getengAgedEngAge is a userconsultation andinvolvementprogramme that givesa voice to older peoplein County Durham.Age Concern Durham County, isable to use information from theEngAge programme to influencethe development and deliveryof services that impact on olderpeople’s lives.Our 50+ LGBT consultationgroup has now met twice inDurham city. At the first sessionparticipants discussed the DraftJoint Strategy for Older Peopleand a very lively bunch theywere too, with lots to say on thesubject.At the second meeting wediscussed how Age ConcernDurham County welcomescontact with the older LGBTcommunities.Our third session is due to takeplace at Framwell House inDurham on July 14th at 11:30am.When we will discuss ‘AgeingWell’ - and what this means toLGBT people. A buffet lunch isavailable at 12:30pm when wecan all have an informal chat untilwe finish at 1:30pm.In future the EngAge team hopeto organise some taster sessionactivities for the group with theinformation they’ve gatheredfrom the more challengingconsultation sessions.If you are 50+, LGBT and live,work or receive services in CoDurham, we’d love to hear fromyou. Stick the 14th July in yourdiary and give Clare Midgley acall to book a place on 0191 3839750 or email clare.midgley@ageconcern-durham.co.ukseniorstoriesPen & Tonic are inthe process of puttingtogether a bid to theHeritage Fund for astorytelling project forolder LGBT people.The intention is to holdworkshops that include lifestories, reminiscing, episodewriting (snapshot stories), makinglife posters and creating artworkand/or memory books. And toinclude some sessions whereparticipants can invite and includestories about their friends andfamilies.At present, interest is beingguaged and they are looking outfor suitable venues to meet. Soif this is something you wouldbe interested in being involvedwith, or have any suitable spacefor groups to meet, please getin touch with Bridget Shea on07914 915 634 or Tess Hudsonon 07981 026 289For those who’d like to know alittle more about Pen & Tonic, visitwww.penandtonic.orgwhatmakes ushappy?Are LGBT emotionaland mental healthand wellbeing needsdifferent from thewider population?South of Tyne and Wear PCTare looking for the views,opinions and recommendationsof LGBT individuals, groups andorganisations working withLGBT people in Gateshead, SouthTyneside and Sunderland.Findings will be fed into a finalLGBT emotional and mentalhealth and wellbeing needsassessment to be deliveredin September. It is hopedthat this work will influencecommissioners and strategists,who will in turn act to addressthe gaps in service provision forLGBT people.Participants can be interviewedanonymously, either individuallyor as part of a focus group.If you, your group or organisationwould like to improve the lives ofLGBT people in Gateshead, SouthTyneside and Sunderland, pleasecontact Marcia Ash by email -marcia.ash@virgin.nettyne valleyramblesOn Sunday 16th May,friends from Cumbria,Wearside, Teessideand Tyneside met atthe beautiful Romantown of Corbridge inthe Tyne Valley for theFed’s second walk.A dozen ‘hellos’ later and wewere on our way through opencountryside and wooded gladesto our first stop, the romantic‘Aydon Castle.’ There, on thecastle ramparts, we had lunchaccompanied by the gentlesounds of a ukulele, expertlyplayed by one of our crew.The sun shone brightly aswe made our way throughthe tranquil hamlet of Aydon.Conversation was flowing as weall got to know each other.Thornborough followed Aydonand finally after 3 hours anda little more than 5 miles, wearrived back in Corbridge.Afterwards, some of us relaxedin the pub while others sat by themarket cross for more banter.The next walk will start fromFourstones and includeWatersmeet, where the northand south Tyne merge. If you’reinterested in joining them, callHugh on 07539 637 772 oremail hunt700@fsmail.netnortheast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 10

news...prosecution panelproves positiveDespite feelings of no confidence in the criminaljustice system, the CPS is taking homophobicand transphobic hate crime very seriously,and this is why the CPS in the north east hasestablished a scrutiny panel to help us improvethe way we prosecute these crimes. So far thepanel is having a very positive impact.beyourselfatThe Crown Prosecution Service(CPS) is aware that many crimestargeted against LGBT people arenot reported and has taken stepsto address the issue.Consequently, CPS Equality,Diversity and CommunityEngagement Manager CarolineAirs, set up the North EastHomophobic and TransphobicHate Crime Scrutiny Panel. At aFed meeting in November 2008people were encouraged to joinand information about the panelwas distributed through variouschannels across the region. Andthe CPS issued a press release,published in out! northeast andThe Crack magazines.A panel of seven people based onachieving a balanced reflection ofthese communities was formed.Caroline said: “We were anxiousto ensure that the panel wassmall enough to be effective, butbroad enough to represent agood cross section of the region’sLGBT communities.Panel members include lesbians,gay men and trans women,from Newcastle/Gateshead,County Durham, Darlington andMiddlesbrough, who first cametogether in April 2009, and havemet four times since then.12At a Fed meeting on June 21,Emma Roebuck, criminal justiceworker at GADD, and memberof the panel, said “the CPS hadrecruited a group of people whoare very challenging, and the CPSclearly welcomes this challenge”.They panel have already raisedissues that have been taken upwith the CPS National PolicyDirectorate; as well as raisingseveral issues that have beencommunicated to CPS staff inthe north east to improve howthey deal with homophobic andtransphobic hate crime cases.Work on preparing a leaflet toensure that victims understandwhat it means to have theircase treated as a hate crime,is underway. Once this work iscompleted in the north east, theleaflet will be sent to the CPSPolicy Directorate to considerwhether it is something whichshould be rolled out nationally.Caroline said “The panel is havinga very positive impact on the waythat homophobic and transphobiccases are dealt with by the CPS.The members are a tenaciousgroup, and we are extremelygrateful to them for the time andenergy they put into it”.For more information about thework of the panel contact CarolineAirs - caroline.airs@cps.gsi.gov.uknortheast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com“Be you at Gentoo” say Gentoo, the highestranked employer in the north east accordingto Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index. Butif you’re LGB, can you really take them at theirword? We thought we’d ask a member ofB-GLAD, Gentoo’s LGB staff network group.Is Gentoo serious aboutbeing a gay-friendlyemployer or are theyjust ticking boxes towin accolades?I did wonder, but decided toget involved anyway - it wasthe only way I would find out!As part of B-GLAD we seethe commitment and practicalways in which Gentoo is usingits influence to have a positiveeffect regionally and nationally.There is real evidence of genuinecommitment. Of course, in sucha large organisation there are stillsome individuals who continueto hold outdated prejudices, butthey’re in the minority and if theyfail to demonstrate fairness andrespect they are very firmlychallenged and appropriate actionis taken.Why did you decideto be involved inB-GLAD?We wanted to meet other LGBstaff at Gentoo to support eachother, but also we saw it as apositive way in which we couldbe involved in influencing Gentoo’svalues, shaping its culture andpolicies, and helping to raiseawareness. Joining B-GLADhas been empowering andreally increased our confidenceto address any negativity orprejudice, because we areconfident that we can expectsupport from management.What’s the best andworst thing aboutbeing ‘out’ at work?There is no worst thing here! It’sgreat not having to live a lie andconstantly watch what you say.It’s great to be able to be yourselfand not have to worry aboutpeople’s prejudices, becauseyou know that the company willsupport you. To quote Stonewall,“people perform better whenthey can be themselves”, and thatis so true!Well it does sound as thoughyou can “be you at Gentoo”, if youwant to be.

news...49% of lgbtstudentsmistreatedWith over 100,000students comingto study at the fiveregional universities,the north east is afantastic place to comeand be yourself.A deciding factor for manygay students is the vibrancy ofthe local gay scene and all thesupport networks available.Newcastle University is carryingout it’s own exciting researchon LGBT identity, equality law,domestic violence & gay families.The higher education’s equalitywatchdog, the Equality ChallengeUnit, has recently published areport on LGBT experiencesin the university sector. Thisreveals that around 49% ofstudents interviewed said theyhad received negative treatmentby other students and the vastmajority were not ‘out’ to theirtutors and other staff.About a third of university staffare ‘out’ to colleagues but asignificant percentage fearedrevealing their identity may hindercareer progression. Students alsoface catastrophic problems if theyhave come out and their parentshave responded negatively.LGBT groups at NewcastleUniversity have been workingtogether to raise the profile ofthese issues across campus,particularly where there areexamples of homophobia in hallsof residence or workplaces.To find out more, please visitwww.mosaicnetwork.org.uk.sexualviolencetrainingTyneside Rape CrisisCentre’s new specialisttraining programmeis built on 30 yearsexperience in sexualviolence, workingwith survivors andprofessionals.2010 sees the introduction ofa newly developed two-dayworkshop focussing on workingwith women and men survivorsof sexual violence.A range of training courses aroundSelf Harm, Working Creatively in aTherapeutic Environment, LearningDisability and Sexual Violence, andPractice Issues and Self Care forprofessionals, run throughoutthe year.TRCC’s training is open toprofessionals from diversebackgrounds including GPs,counsellors, youth workers,social workers, probation officers,psychotherapists and support staff.All training is held in a Newcastlecity centre venue. Fees vary from£75 to £200 and participantsreceive a resource pack andcertificate of attendance.breakfast or lunch andrefreshments provided.For more information call 0191222 0272 or email enquiries@tynesidercc.org.ukhealthMOTs ingatesheadLooking to improveyour diet, exercise, copebetter with stress, giveup smoking, drugs oralcohol or even get ahealth MOT? GatesheadHealth Trainers arehere to help.They provide support to everyonein the community, wherever theyare - to motivate and supportthem to achieve their goals andovercome barriers which preventthem living a healthier lifestyle.The team were chosen fromtheir communities and have avast knowledge of the Gatesheadarea, working with groups andindividuals from across theborough to help them find theright services. Each member ofthe team also has their own areaof specialism and work closelywith BME, LGBT and learningdisabled communities.If you would like furtherinformation, contact the HealthTrainers on 0191 433 6950 oremail:healthtrainers@gateshead.gov.ukmiss TgirlnewcastleFor the first timeMiss TGirl has cometo Newcastle.On friday 18th June the UrbanCafe at Dance City was the venuefor what was a very glamourousevening indeed. Where overallwinner Stephanie, and runners upJuliette & Rachel were delighted toreceive their accolades.Thanks to supporters Kai Smithand John Harrison at NorthernPride, The Yard, Dance City,Marks & Spencer and NewLook, for their much appreciatedassistance in making the wholenight such a success.Organisers are hoping that theevent will become an annual affairand request that anyone interestedin taking part or helping out can getin touch through Northern Pride -info@npride.org.ukIn the meantime, look out for thegirls in the Pride Parade. HappyPride everyone.14northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

news...Trans-genderbeauty andskincarecoursesNewcastle CityLearning offerstraining opportunitiesat a variety of centresacross Newcastle.Their flexible approach grantsthem the flexibility of deliveringcourses within local communitiesto suit the specific needs oflearners.At our Westgate site we havededicated beauty treatmentrooms where our experiencedtutors (both called Claire!)are keen to pass on skincareand make up skills to help thetransgender community makethe most of their appearance.Our facilities offer a private andnon-threatening environmentso if you would like to arrangean informal visit or discuss howwe can support you, then pleasecontact Barbara Elder on 07977410 215 or email barbara.elder@newcastle.gov.ukFor up to date information onour other courses, call freephone0800 073 0911 or visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/lifelonglearninglesbianswho lunchLesbians who Lunch,an informal networkof women based in &around Durham, whomeet at least once amonth for Sunday lunch,recently celebrated theirfirst birthday.Events are hosted by volunteerson a rota basis. One such eventthat they have planned is a picnicon August 8th, probably by theobservatory, which promisesto be great fun, especially if theweather holds out. Bring food anddrink to share - from noon.You can join LwL on Facebook,where you can keep up to datewith events also posted by otherwomen’s groups.They welcome all women, out ornot. For more information aboutthe picnic or to meet for Sundaylunch email lwldurham@hotmail.com or call on 07768 072 850.not enoughgays in thisvillagemysinglefriend.com is offeringreaders of out! northeast amonth’s free membership - simplysign up before the end of July.“What we and our membersreally want is simple - more talentto choose from” said AmandaChristie, MD of mysinglefriend.comReaders of out! northeast cansign-up for a free membershipat www.mysinglefriend.com/moregaysinglesJust get a friend to write yourprofile. Tell your friends, sign eachother up and make a community- it’s free!it’stortureThe Medical Foundationfor the Care of Victimsof Torture North Eastis a registered charityworking with survivorsof torture, many ofwhom’s clients areasylum seekers andrefugees.Part of their remit is to offertraining and awareness-raisingevents and networking meetingsevery two months for thoseinterested in improving themental wellbeing of survivorsof torture.It also provides counselling toparticularly vulnerable individualswith complex needs for whom aservice is not available elsewhere.A forthcoming meeting will focuson work with sexual minoritieswho are survivors of torture.For further details contact:dleripe@torturecare.org.ukor phone 0191 261 5825gayparentsThe North East LGBTParenting Group is agroup for people withchildren or thosethinking of becomingparents.It is an informal social group,who meet once a month on aSaturday afternoon at variouslocations across the north east.They tend to find places wherethose with kids can play andadults can have a chat.If you would like to find out moreinformation about them or whentheir next meeting is, please callAnna on 07837 608 564.15northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 15

icon... lady gagaladyPicture this: the large auditorium at Metro Arena, Newcastle. The concertin question was a sell out. Everywhere you look there are people dancingto the music and basking in the lights that flash around the stage. A seaof digital cameras capture the opening moments, as the night’s heroappears centre-stage. All five feet three inches of her.A little later as band membersrearrange themselves and thelights change to indicate the nextsong, Lady Gaga begins to speakto the crowd who are screamingin admiration. ‘I remember whenI was in prison, earlier this year’she confesses as the audiencefalls silent. ‘Beyonce called’ shecontinues. This is all she needsto say and the arena erupts intocheers of excitement, now awarethat the next song is Telephone.It’s a small moment of the night,yet it sticks with me because itperfectly captures the hysteriasurrounding one of our newesticons. Lady Gaga has to sayvery little to capture everyone’sattention.This time two years ago, Gaga(or Stefani Germanotta, to giveher real name) was unknown tothe masses. Today, however, it’sa different story and you can’tseem to read the daily tabloidswithout her name poppingup. Looking back at the music16video for her first UK single,Just Dance, Gaga seems nodifferent, at least on the surface,to the commercial-friendly popprincesses that have gone beforeher. With her poker-straightbright blonde hair, glittered heels,sunglasses, slim physique andblack leather gloves, she looks likea toxic combination of ‘BritneymeetsPink’.Whilst not looking too out of theordinary, audibly Gaga gives ussomething completely differentto anything else around; a catchy,synth-fuelled, edgy pop anthem.The song is unapologeticallyhappy, and at a time wheneconomic recession loomed, sheinspired people to forget theirproblems and Just Dance.As the world began to enjoy thesingles that followed, you can seein each music video that Gaga andher creative entourage (who shenamed ‘The Haus Of Gaga’ ) weregiven more creative freedom.The music video for BadRomance is notably dark andnortheast / issue 21 / outnortheast.comeven more theatrical than thosethat preceded it. Perhaps thisis one reason why the videobecame the most watchedYouTube video of all time - havinggained over one-hundred andeighty million hits since its launch.Theatricality is an ever-increasingforce that Gaga continues todisplay. When writing about herin Time magazine, close friendCyndi Lauper notably observed ‘Ifind it very comforting to sit nextto somebody and not have toworry that I look like the freak.’ Ofcourse what Lauper is referringto is Gaga’s unique style, which, inits obscurity, completely alienatedGaga to those around her.Purposefully crazy and noticeable,Gaga holds the torch for thosewho dare to be different - fromproud gays to bullied schoolgeeks. Gaga calls her fans her‘little monsters’, while they referto her as their ‘mother monster’- so much so that for mother’sday earlier this year a collectionof fans created a video compiledof dedications and messages ofthanks to her.To her ‘little monsters’, Gagarepresents a motherly figure; onethat nurtures and encouragestheir individuality, whilst beingfiercely and fully protective of them.One only has to watch any of theYouTube videos of fans meetingtheir idol to understand just howappreciative and thankful Gaga is oftheir supportHowever, Lady Gaga’s relationshipwith the gay community is notjust an attempt on her behalf tokeep her main market happy.Bisexual herself, her devotion tothe gay community stretches farbeyond the ‘God bless the gays’statement she regularly makesat her concerts. So much so, thatduring her speech at the NationalEquality March in Washington DClast October, she shouted ‘Are youlistening’ to President Obama. Afearless woman, she continued topush LGBT rights declaring to him‘We will continue to push you andyour administration to bring yourwords of promise to a reality’. Andpush, she does.In her latest music video for

icon... lady gagagaganew age iconTelephone we see Gaga display arange of gender representations- from lesbian kisses with fellowinmates to transsexual-appearingprison guards.Whilst lesbian kisses may notbe something rare to the typicalmusic video, the tongue-in cheekapproach is something far lesscommon in today’s mainstream,commercial pop music industry.And although Gaga may not beeverybody’s (China) cup of tea,her ‘dare to be different’ approachto life will no doubt encouragethe music industry and itsconsumers to be more openminded.Here’s hoping it helpsmake the industry more LGBTfriendly,which can only be a goodthing. She may well be gaga butshe’s definitely a top class lady.by dan normannortheast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com17

life...faithholyhypocrisyThe pope recently declined an inviteto visit Durham when he comes tothe UK - at tax payers expense - inSeptember. It’s a shame because thereare quite a few of us in the north eastlgbt communities who would haveliked a quiet word with him.The Catholic Church is the largestinstitution in the western world.It’s leader, currently pope BenedictXVI, succeeds Peter (Jesus Christ’sright hand man), as the rock uponwhich the church is built. And assuch, his voice is the voice of godto catholics the world over. PopeBenedict holds supreme authorityover a billion people who profess tobelieve in the teachings of Christ.The church’s mission is spreadingthe gospel of Jesus, who spokeof loving thy neighbour as onewould love thyself. Yet throughthe pope, hatred is directedtowards every lgbt person on theplanet. Sons and daughters of anall-embracing heavenly father,are denied their natural god-giveninstincts to love each other. Headamantly opposes gay marriageand refuses to acknowledge ourinherent human characteristics.Born largely of straight mothers& fathers, he tells our parents thatwe are flawed and wayward. Anddemands that we fix ourselves bysimply changing our complex minds.He adamantly repudiates gayadoption refusing to accept thatlgbt men and women can ever begood parents. The only conclusionwe can draw is that children areundoubtedly better off in temporaryor institutional care. Left without theclose nurturing relationships thatmany gay people already bring tomany lone children.It is almost certain that theywould not be better off in the careof his own ordained ministerswho, over recent years, havebeen exposed for thousands ofsexual assaults against minorsall over the world. Indeed his ownbrother is accused of ‘turning ablind eye’ to the systematic abuseof choirboys by clergy under hisjurisdiction. And the pope himselfis under scrutiny for authorisingthe transfer of an abusive priestto his own diocese, to practise,until six years later when he wasfinally convicted. But the popewill not be convicted because heis above the law. And althoughrecently he has made apologiesto save face; maintains that heis guided by the holy spirit fromtruly falling into doctrinal error.The catholic church is so hung upwhen it comes to sex becauseit starves itself of the pleasuresit can bring. Since procreation isseen as its primary purpose, weare reminded that there is no placefor us and the love that we make.Last year the pope told Africansthat they shouldn’t be usingcondoms in the fight against AIDS.Considering approximately 25million people have died from thedisease in sub-saharan Africa inrecent decades, and an estimated22.5 million are living with HIV, thatsounds to me like he is incitingmass murder.I need to mention also that it’swithout doubt a man’s world in thevatican. Where the men wear thedresses and the women still toethe line - always acting in service.This they do willingly as they tryto achieve the impossible. Walkinghumbly in the shadows, aspiringto their ultimate role model, thesupreme example of devoutwomenhood, the holy mother ofJesus, the blessed - get this - virginMary. There is no right to choosefor catholic women. There is only‘pay the price or be damned’.The catholic church is renownedfor the charitable work itundertakes. As such it operatessocial programs and institutionsthroughout the world. It permeatesinto so many corners of the planetin the guise of goodness that it isdifficult for believers to entertainthoughts that it could be riddledwith hatred but it is so. We, asgod’s children are not welcomeand indeed our fellow earthlings- even our parents - are advisedto shun us. But that is not the loveand peace that Jesus taught.If you do want to visit the pope,to kiss the hem of his skirt orotherwise, you will have to go toGlasgow, Edinburgh, Birminghamor London. We’ll let you knowwhen and where in the next issueof out! northeast.Please see our homophobia articlein the out! law section p24 for moreon what Peter Tatchell is doing inpreparation for the pope’s UK visit.You may also be interested in ourEx-Gay No Way book review p29.LOVETHYNEIGHBOUR(NO GAYS)18northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.comnice dress ;x

Everyone has a story to tell about drinking - a good night out or a bad night in...The stories we tell each other are excellent ways of recording what's importantIf you're Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender and live in South Tyneside(Gateshead, Sunderland or South Shields), we want to hear your drinking stories.We particularly welcome anyone willing to talk at lengthabout their alcohol related experiences in the gay community.This research, funded by NHS South of Tyne and Wear, willhelp service organisations create support systems that arerelevant, accessible and welcoming to LGBT communities.Help NHS South of Tyne and Wear create great services for our communitySend your stories to Debs Walker(confidentiality is assured)Email debbiewalker@trinityyouth.org.ukCall Debs on 07790 823 040(leave your number - all calls returned)NHSNHS South of Tyne and Wearof your smileTMForTooth ImplantsVeneers · Bridges · CrownsZoom WhiteningDental HygieneNervous? No problem.Bring who you like to hold your hand.0191 232 42333 St Mary’s Place (near Haymarket Metro) · Newcastle · NE1 7PGwww.newcastledentalcare.co.ukNHS patients welcomeDr KP McKeever BDS (Ncle 1999)PG Dip Health Services (Ncle)

life...travelblackpoolFun. Camp. Friendly.Kitsch. All words thatsum up Blackpool - okthere are others (dampand cold spring tomind), but for a cheapand enjoyable weekendaway it really can’tbe beaten.I first walked downthe Golden Mile whenI was about 7 yearsold, and have such vividmemories of the brightlights, smell of fish andchips, little dancingmonkeys (yes really)and the excitingrides at BlackpoolPleasure Park.I also remember Mrs Smith, thewoman who ran the B&B wherewe stayed. She was ever so angrywhen she found out I had drawnnice pictures all over her wallpaperin room 14. In fact she was soangry her curlers nearly poppedout of her hair. Oh memories. Butenough about holidays in the early80s, back to today.It has been said that Blackpool isthe Las Vegas of the north, welllet’s get one thing sorted here, it’snot. And nor does it want to be, asnowhere in the world does whatBlackpool does.Getting to Blackpool is easy, there’sthe train, easy road access andit even has an airport (although Ithink a flight from Newcastle orTeesside would be ever so slightlyindulgent!). Now if you travel downon a weekend you may have toaccept that you will be sharingyour train carriage with a numberof hen and stag weekends alsoheading to the glitzy lights ofBlackpool for some good oldfashioned British seaside fun.Now I don’t mind sharing mytrain carriage with a few drunkenfolk, but a whole weekend,that is another thing. Takingthis into consideration, I wouldsuggest that you choose youraccommodation very carefully.There are loads of places to stay,from the mega cheap to therather expensive.Gay and lesbian friendlyaccommodation is common inBlackpool, and there are evena few lesbian and gay ownedB&Bs. For gay owned try ‘TheNorthern Star’, ‘Betty’s Gay Hotel’,‘Grampian House’ or the ratherpleasant ‘Pride Lodge’. All arelocated near the entertainmentheart of Blackpool and all can beresearched first online.A relaxing break on the beach isnot the most likely choice for aweekend in Blackpool, given therather significant chance it willrain. But that gives you manyreasons to explore the fun side tothe town.No trip to Blackpool is completewithout a visit to the PleasureBeach. Now since I was a kidthings have changed a lot andgenerally that has involvedcreating more and more ridesthat will make your lunch pay anunwanted re-visit. The Big One(yes there are so many jokes forthis) is a must. Ok, I have actuallynever been on it, but it looks greatup close and I am assured thatit is great fun (even if you arethrown around like a rag doll at agreat height!). I preferred the logflume, nice and slow, and scaryenough!The lesbian and gay scene inBlackpool is well known in thiscountry and deservedly so.Rather than listing them all hereI would suggest you have a lookat the informative and great‘Blackpool LGBT CommunityPortal’ website that lists themall and provides links to all thevenues’ own web-pages.The ‘Flying Handbag’ is a mustvisit venue, simply because of itsgreat name and its reputation fora fun and friendly atmosphere.However the one venue that willgive a memorable night out is‘Funny Girls’ - a world knowndrag and burlesque club. Thishuge venue will provide you withsome of the best drag showsin the UK in glitzy and campsurroundings.Heading back from your nighton the tiles, the fish and chipsof Blackpool can’t be beaten forsoaking up that excess alcoholand getting you ready for a goodnight’s sleep.Blackpool really does provide afun weekend away. It’s strengthis not culture, sophistication orthe ‘arts’ but on giving tourists afriendly, fun, exciting and camptime - something very few placescan really achieve in the UK. Oh,and you do realise a ‘Kiss MeQuick’ hat is obligatory!by mark casey20northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

CALL A HALT TO HATEMake a difference, report hate crime when it happens,get support and information by telephone, internetor at one of our community reporting centres.CivilPartnershipsDomestic ViolenceChildrenAdoptionFinancesCivil PartnershipsFREE INITIALAPPOINTMENTSTelephone0191 565 3112Emailadvice@benhoarebell.co.ukWebsitewww.benhoarebell.co.ukWhatever the reason,family breakdown canbe a nightmare.You don’t have to go italone. We’re on your side ,so come and talk.For advice on civilpartnershipsOFFICES IN NEW CASTLE & SUNDERLAND

life...positivepositivelySo it’s time for Pride again.by steve paskeproudEvery year people, particularlygay men, complain to me and askwhat’s the point of Pride, apartfrom a giant excuse to party?After all, we’ve got all the gayrights we wanted, it’s just beinggay, there’s really no need tomarch down NorthumberlandStreet carrying banners to leteveryone know! Well, I’m sorry,but I believe there is.and guilt they feel about beingwho they are. LGBT people experiencemental health problemsmore than four times as often asthe population as a whole. Younggay men are up to ten timesmore likely to try and commitsuicide than straight men. Younggay women are twenty-five (yes,that’s 25) times more likely toself-harm than straight women.Every year I see large numbers If shame and guilt are at the rootof young (and not so young) LGBT of that, and many other healtha6_ad_hotvillage2:Layout people who are in a state of great 1 18/6/10 problems 13:40 we as Page a group 1 aredistress because of the shame more likely to suffer, then surelyPride is a good thing. To be ableto walk through the city centreand shout out ‘I am proud to bewho I am’ not only makes mefeel better, seeing a thousandpeople doing it is sending amessage not just to other LGBTpeople who might be watching,but also to all the thousands ofstraight parents, brothers, sisters,aunts and uncles etc. whosee us. It lets them know thereis nothing wrong, nothing weird,and nothing to be ashamed ofwith being gay.If you are one of the lucky ones,who like me has come throughall the hurt, then by all meansparty till you drop on July 17th inLeazes Park and afterwards. Butbefore you do that, make sureyou join the march, come alongto the Civic Centre (you need tobe there to join the line up wellbefore noon), dress up if youwant to, bring flags, banners,whistles or whatever you want,and be proud to show the worldwho you are!A CELEBRATION OF LESBIAN GAY BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER LIFEWWW.COLESTUDIO.CO.UKDESIGNED WITH LOVE & PRIDETHE BIG WEEKEND27-30 AUGUSTTICKETS ON SALE NOW£17.50* STANDARD PRICEMANCHESTERPRIDE.COM0871 230 3450COMPANY NO: 4671318REGISTERED CHARITY NO: 1117848RAISING MONEY FOR HIV & LGBTCHARITIES AND ORGANISATIONSIN GREATER MANCHESTER*ONLY APPLIES IF PURCHASEDON OR BEFORE 26 AUGUST 2010TICKET PRICES ARE SUBJECTTO A BOOKING FEE

life...s-t-r-e-t-c-hfitnessoutTaking the time to stretchyour muscles at theend of every workout isessential. Not stretchingeffectively can inhibit theflexibility and mobility ofyour body and can leadto the risk of injury ormuscle damage.During exercise the constantcontracting actions of the musclesmakes them tighter and shorter.The danger is that withoutstretching they can remain thisway over time. This can createproblems within the muscle orcause imbalances in opposingsides of the body leading to poorposture. Lactic acid (produced bythe body during strenuous exerciseand responsible for that burningsensation you feel) can build upin the muscle. Stretching can alsohelp to disperse this and preventmuscle spasms and injury.The following is a 10 minute fullbody stretch sequence that willhelp alleviate any muscle sorenessor discomfort after you havefinished a workout. Hold eachstretch for at least 15 seconds. Ifyou have more time, focus on thecalf, hamstring and adductor muscles.Hold for an initial 15 seconds,stretch further and hold again andrepeat once more. Tightness inthese areas can have a negativeeffect on posture.calf stretchadductor stretchStand with hands on hips. Take astep backwards, straighten backleg, bend front knee slightly andpush down into your back heel.quad stretchStand on one leg with the otherleg bent behind you. Pull the foottowards the buttocks whilstdrawing the knee in and down.chest stretchClasp hands behind back (don’ttilt forward), straighten arms andraise hands upwards.tricep stretchReach arm up, bend the elbowand reach down the back as iftrying to scratch an itch betweenyour shoulder blades. Use theother arm to press the elbowback to increase the stretch.shoulder stretchSit on the floor with the solesof your feet together. Hold theankles, pull feet towards you, relaxthe knees down and ease torsoforwards from the hips.hamstring stretchLie on your back, one leg bent andon the floor, the other raised in theair. Hold the back of your calf andpull the leg gently towards you.The straighter you keep the leg,the more effective the stretch.abductor stretchSit upright with legs straight. Liftleft foot over the right leg, keepingthe left knee bent. Press the backof your left thigh with your rightelbow. Repeat other side.Bring your straight arm acrossthe front of the body at chestheight. Press your other handagainst the arm for a deeperstretch.by keith wardKeith is a personal trainer and fitnessinstructor. He runs exercise classesat Bodymechanixs, Morpeth and NoLimits, Hexham. He has also run weightmanagement classes for RosemaryConley Diet & Fitness Clubs.23northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 23

life... law24northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

life... lawhomophobiaSince this is the first out! law column since the general election this is my firstopportunity to comment on the new administration. It’s been quite a rockyroad so far. The new Government is barely a month old as I write, yet we havealready had the first sleaze scandal, very sadly involving a very ‘in’ David Laws.politics & lawsIn the election elsewhere withthe ink barely dry on the civilpartnership agreement betweenthe Con-Dems, David and Nickare obviously anxious to throwoff any allegations of homophobicbehaviour that might be clingingto ‘Old Tory’. Chris Grayling(remember him? The formershadow Home Secretary whounfashionably supported thatB&B owner over his right tobar gay couples) has beendemoted to Junior PensionsMinister. Shame he is still ingovernment at all. Anyway, weare promised all sorts from thenew regime including action onhomophobic bullying, and an endto deportation of asylum seekersclaiming asylum because of theirsexual orientation. Any numberof lesbians and gay men havepreviously been deported backto countries of origin where theyface punishment and in somecases death, for their sexuality onthe basis that ‘they could hide theirsexuality’. Let’s watch this space.What I found astonishing washow this whole affair wasdownplayed. Tories and LiberalDemocrats alike were queuing upfor airtime to shake their headsmournfully over the loss of sucha financial genius, speaking inunsympathetic tones about howhe has been forced to resignfrom office and all because he isgay! Nobody gave a damn aboutwhether he was gay or not, whatmembers of his constituency, andno doubt the rest of the countrydid give a damn about, was thefact that he was ripping off our taxmoney to give to his boyfriend in‘rent’! Ben Summerskill (Stonewall)and gay rights campaigner PeterTatchell were quick to tell it likeit is: this is nothing to do withhomophobia and everythingto do with greed.Mr Laws and by all accounts hispartner are both millionaires. Ifhe wanted to keep his privatelife private, all Mr Laws had todo, was not claim from you andI the £8,000 a year he gave tohis partner, James Lundie. Howdisappointing that a memberof the cabinet couldn’t be out,but that aside once outed as anexpenses fraud, he then choseto hide behind his sexuality.Worse still, we have now gotDavid Alexandra as the new ChiefSecretary to the Treasury whois not a banker, doesn’t have afinancial background but... at leasthe comes fresh to the job.malawian moralityGreat news over the last coupleof weeks about the release ofthe two Malawian gay men jailedfor having a civil partnership.Tiwonge Chimbalanga and StevenMonjeza who were imprisoned foroffences against Malawi’s moralitylaws, have been pardoned bythe Malawian government: orat least partially pardoned, afterthe intervention of Ban Ki-Moon.In releasing the two men fromprison the Malawian head of state,President Bingu Wa Mutharika,insisted that they live apart,returning them each to their ownvillage. Ban Ki-Moon praised thedecision to release the two menas courageous and condemnedthe Malawian morality laws asoutdated.Ban Ki-Moon was not the onlyperson to offer high profilesupport to the two men. Sir EltonJohn wrote a letter of appeal to theMalawi President, and Madonna,yes Madge herself, intervened.Sadly, reports are now comingout of Malawi that Steven Monjezahas been forced to marry awoman. Forced marriage ofyoung gay men and women itappears, is common all overthe world.protest the popeMore news of Peter Tatchell:with the Pope’s imminent visit.Tatchell is to host a documentaryabout the Pope and the Catholicleader’s belief on issues such ashomosexuality and condoms.Those familiar with Tatchell’sinvolvement in the ‘Protest thePope Coalition’ will await thisdocumentary to be screenedimmediately before the Pope’svisit this September. I wouldrecommend everyone withaccess to the internet to go tothe Protest the Pope website,which is a jolly good read, notleast of all as it outlines the Pope’s‘crimes against sex and sexuality’.I particularly like ‘crime’ number 6:‘Rehabilitating the Holocaust denierBishop Richard Williamson’ andthe ‘Appease of Hitler, by wartimePope Pius X11’. It goes on to saythat the Vatican state’s record onhuman rights is deplorable andas such, as head of state of theVatican, the Pope is an unsuitableguest of the UK governmentand should not be accorded thehonour and recognition of a statevisit to this country. And I thoughtthat all the excitement would beover after the World Cup.by cris mccurleyCris is a partner specialising in familylaw at north east firm Ben Hoare Bellnortheast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 25

culture... art, film and music26northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

culture...art, film and musicfestival of gender bendingThis event is all about gender bending art, film and music, and is the Star and Shadow’s contribution toNorthern Pride’s 2010 celebrations. You are included in a normally exclusively underground world. Thisfestival is about breaking with convention and promises to drag all who dare on a transgenderouslyinformative expedition of camp, colour and glitz of hysterical proportions, as well as exploring on amore serious note what it is to identify as man, woman, transgender or whoever. With many moreacts still to be confirmed, the programme details are as follows...wednesday 21 julygender euphoriafilm premierebeautifuldarlingOpening film season GenderEuphoria - English premiere.thursday 22 julygender euphoriafilm double billparis isburningandstonewallOpen discussions afterwards.Over 18s onlyfriday 23 july · from 7.30pmAn evening to explore genderdiversity in all its forms throughphotography, film, performance,music and exchanging ideas.Come as you are or want tobe, changing facilities can beprovided. This will be a safe andwelcoming space for all, howeveryou identify.nobody passesperfectly is a subtle,humoristic and thought evokingfilm about the courage to changeoneself radically. Director SaskiaBisp invites her audience toplaces where the gender isn’ta predefined condition, dictatedonly by biology, but a verypersonal part of the self that canbe challenged, investigated andaltered. Meet Tomka who is rightin the middle of such a process. Helives in a very loving relationshipwith his Lesbian girlfriend Lotte.Together they try to imagine whathis transitioning will mean for theirrelationship. And meet Erik, whowas once a heterosexual woman,and has finally decided to live hislife as a man.21-25 july 2010star and shadow cinemastepney bank, newcastlefilm, visual arts, music & craft stallstime for TEntry £3 (£2 concessions)photography by dawnlatimer continuing a personalexploration of gender and identity;new work offering a glimpse ofhomoerotic sailor fantasies.a series of questionsan ongoing photo essay byL. Weingarten, exploring thepower dynamics inherent in thequestions asked of transgender,transsexual, genderqueer,gender-variant, and gender nonconformingpeople.live performance by raespoon who was born on theCanadian prairies of the 80’s.In his early twenties he hit theroad as one of the world’s onlytransgendered country singers.Tonight’s performance will bepart of his latest European tour.hoo-har djs have playedextensively around the countrymixing funk, soul, reggae, punk,new wave, rock n’ roll and ska.Party, smile and get down.For more information on thisevening’s activities, contact Lesleyon 01642 803 607saturday 24 julywomen’s musicfor the girlswho wouldbe kingA she night to challenge andredefine the boundaries of amale dominated music world -female-fronted bands and soloperformers confirmed so far areMinnie and the Victors, CharityCase, Gem Andrews, Mush, LadyKitt. This event will blow the roofoff. DJs will spin celebratory girlpower tunes to get your tootsiesrocking into the wee small hours.sunday 25 julyworkshops, filmbuffet & caberetfabulousdragWorkshops in makeup, poiseand performance during the day.Scrumptious food buffet, fantasticcabaret performance by StardustPromotions Chantelle Marie,then end of Gender Euphoria filmseason showing of ‘Hedwig’. All inattendance are welcome to EasyStreet top class drag performancein the toon where freebies and bighair’n’heels await.27northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 27

culture... music reviewsby james barrlistenBreaking News: Grindr is soon to go to Blackberry which means there’ll bemore gentlemen to exchange holiday pics with.... That’s me sorted for thesummer! Here’s some of the records you’ll be listening to whilst browsing.adamlambertwhataya wantfrom me(jason nevins electrotek remix)thesaturdaysmissing youfugativebad girl(dawood & preston remix)yolanda becool vs dcupwe no speakamericanoAdam Lambert, runner up on lastyears American Idol has beendescribed as the male Lady GaGa.He’s maybe the first openly gayrecording artist to come out ofAmerica, ever! This song is hissecond from the album (which isamazing) and is about the fear youcan feel at the start of a new relationship.Lyrically it could make youcry, yet Nevins’ remix turns it intoan electronic dance floor explosion.I’d have preferred more ofan ‘Up’ style return from TheSaturdays but this is still good.It’s in ‘rave-ballad’ territory! A bit‘JLS - One Shot’ and a bit ‘Robyn -Dancing On My Own’.The lyric “I Miss Missing You” issomething we can all relate to ina break up but come on girls if‘Forever is over’, move on.Youtube this boys video now.The song is amazing. Honest.He looks like the kind of boy thatwould steal your wallet in themorning. It’s a ‘treat ‘em mean,keep ‘em keen’ style record.Proper amazing, and although hesays he likes a bad girl, he’s usingan iphone in the video so youmight find him on Grindr... Haha!‘We No Speak Americano’is basically a new version of‘Gramaphonedzie - Why Don’tYou’... It’s got bongos, trumpets, apiano riff and the most infectiouselectro bounce. You’ll wannabe dancing all night! Even withyour volume on full it’s not loudenough! A-Actual-Maze.See you on the dancefloor xJames Barr can be heard on Galaxy FMSunday-Friday from 7-10pm. Listen on DAB and105-106FM in the north east, Sky Channel 0112and at www.galaxyfm.com28northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

culture... book reviewsby dan normanand aly rhodesreadtabloid girlsharon marshallsphere 2010The few recentsunshine-filled daysmeans the short-livedBritish summer hasbegun and what betterway to spend the daythan indulging in thismonth’s guilty pleasure.ex-gayno wayjallen rixfindhorn press 2010Now this is an unusualone and perhaps hasa limited audience butpart of its message hithome hard as it paralleledwith the ‘realitydenying’ relationshipI had with my owndevout parents.Sharon Marshall, now soapcorrespondent for ‘This Morning’was once upon a time astruggling journalist, living anot-so-glamorous life, workingon a national tabloid newspaper.This book details the entire juicygoings-on Sharon experiencedwhilst trying to get the allimportantexclusive and herbattles with some of the nation’smuch-loved celebrities.If you liked ‘The Devil WearsPrada’ you will love this book,which reveals the missionimpossibletasks Sharon was setby her mysterious but menacingeditor. A very humorous andhonest true story, this bookwouldn’t exactly make it as asuitable alternative for a DanBrown fan. However, if you’re likeme and you just want an easy,gossipy and scandalous summerbook to indulge in, then this bookis perfect for you. I have to admitthat it made me laugh out loud inparts, which is something I rarelydo with a book.At the same time, there weremoments when I found myselfhoisting my jaw back up afterreading some of Sharon’sencounters with A-Listers.Anybody considering a careeras a tabloid hack should definitelygive this book a go - it’s rare toread a rose-tinted-free accountof life in the media and even morerare to find one that is so easy todip in and out of.Whilst this book has so manystrengths, there was a part ofme that struggled to believesome of the details. At specificmoments, which I shan’t revealhere, I felt that bits had beenfictionalised, almost as an attemptto create a sense of irony. This isa shame, because such deliberateattempts at irony can make thestories being told somewhatless believable and take awaythe readers’ trust in the author.Having said that, it’s a small faulton an otherwise brilliant book.4/5Rix has been through the mill.Brought up in a strict baptist family,where being gay caused a plethoraof problems that he was forced tointernalize. He tells us that if you’redenied from addressing a problem,especially one that’s beyond yourcontrol, you are in fact being subjectto religious abuse. Instead of havingan open and honest discourse, areligiously abusive environmentsays “you don’t just have a problem- but you are the problem”.Out of love for his parents and inan attempt to free himself fromanguish, Rix spent months inbaptist ex-gay therapy where heexplained “they emotionally beatthe gay out of you”. He goes on toexplain that systematic stigmatisingof homosexuality forcedhim to self-hate because “it’s youagainst a massive organisation- with god at the helm. So it’s anabuse of power really”.Since fundamental Christianscan’t trust themselves, they usethe bible as a compass to heaven,which of course brings themcomfort because they alwaysknow where true north is.Trouble is, sometimes it pointsin the opposite direction. Forhim, god is in everything, notjust the bible. He states that thepreoccupation with heaven andhell is not his problem becauseit makes god a banker thatpromises, “if you invest in him,you will reap streets of goldlater, but we’re living right hereright now”.Speaking of his relationship withhis parents, Rix says that he hadto let go of his need for them toaccept him. Now the focus is nolonger one of trying to changeeach other. It is much shallower,where no questions are askedand they hold back a lot of theirlove. Which naturally disappointshim but in his opinion, it is betterthan nothing.Rix has a holistic believer’sangle on the issue - which heexpresses well - that those (notme) wishing to retain a relationshipwith Christ may find relevant.4/529northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 29

takes... in the communitya-zDerwentside LGBARCHReport hate crime. If you or someoneyou know has been the victim of homophobicharassment in Newcastle.Freephone 24/7 (even from mobiles)0800 032 32 88bangsheesWomen’s drumming band. MeetsThursday evenings in Shieldfield.All women welcome.info@bangshees.comBerwick CommunitySupport GroupMonthly social group.07980 260 345Big-UpSexual health information for Africanand Caribbean gay/bisexual men.info@bigup.co.uk0207 501 9315 (Tues/Thurs 6-8)Big Up NorthNorth east social group for gay menand chasers. Meets weekly in Ncl &N Tyneside. Coffee meets, trips away,cinema visits + more.bigjohnuk@hotmail.comBody Positive NEDrugs outreach, counselling, welfarebenefits advice, and HIV/AIDS support.0191 232 2855ChoicesSupport and social group for LGBTpeople in Stockton.stocktonlgbt@googemail.comwww.hartgables.org.uk07979 941 912Cross + Roads GIDSupport & social events for transsexualand inter-sexed people on genderre-assignment programmes.0191 295 5313Cycling GroupFor lesbians in the North East. Monthlyride usually on weekend mornings,ranging in distance - always at the paceof the slowest rider. Friends welcome.newcastlelesbianline@hotmail.com07502 388 841 (will ring back)Derwentside LGB GroupUser-led informal group for LGB people.Wednesday evenings 7-9pm in Consett.Support, one-to-one health info & advice.susan.thompson@cdpct.nhs.uk0191 374 4144 (Sue)30Youth GroupYoung LGB people can develop and understandissues of sexuality. One-to-onework to encourage personal, social andeducational development.susan.thompson@cdpct.nhs.uk0191 374 4144 (Sue)Durham UniversityLGBT SocietyMeets weekly Students Union duringterm-time plus additional functions andtrips out. Open to students from otherlocal unis and colleges, and non-students.mailto:lgbt@dsu.org.ukwww.dur.ac.uk/the.association0191 374 3320Durham YoungGay People’s NetworkWeekly support and socials in Durhamfor lgbt people 15-25 years.www.dygmg.org.uk0191 383 141407842 905 433 (Billijean/George)0191 384 2785 (office hours)DykehikesRegular hikes for lesbians in andaround the region.www.dykehikes.org.uk0191 261 2277Eslwick Girls GroupGroup for girls and women. Younglesbian one-to-one support available.Tel: 0191 273 4942The FedBringing together LGBT organisationsto act as one regionwide voice for LGBTcommunities. Publishes out! northeast.Members organise social events.mail@lgbtfed.comwww.lgbtfed.comFriday Men’s GroupGay and bi men meet Friday evenings inDarlington, 7-9.30pm.01325 355 551Fruit SaladSocial group meets monthly in SouthTyneside to raise awareness of LGBTissues through creative writing and art.jamielamckenna@yahoo.co.uk07716 775 102 (Jamie)The FryersWeekly social sessions in Bedlington forLGBT young people and their friendsaged 13 to 25. Individual support. Variedactivities programme set by members.www.tyarainbow.org.uk01670 531 843 (office)07790 823 040 (LGBT worker)northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.comGAPFor all gay / bi young men 16 -19. Meetsweekly. Safe space to discuss comingout, gay men and the law, HIV, safersex, relationships. Also social activities.0191 233 1333 (Mesmac)Gay Men TynesideSocial activity alternatives to thegay scene. Open to gay / bi men 20years and over. Wednesday evenings ina relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.www.gay-men-tyneside.org.uk07857 837 319GADD (Gay AdviceDarlington/Durham)Information, support, advice, socialactivities, HIV/AIDS positive livingand TV/TS support.www.gayadvicedarlington.co.uk01325 355 551Gay & BisexualMen’s ServiceSupport, info & advice in Durham.01207 523 614 (Colin Cowings)or 07825 401 987Gay & LesbianAlcoholics Anonymous01670 354 576Tony - evenings from 10pm)Gay Outdoor ClubNational organisation with severalregional and specialist groups suchas caving, cycling, swimming. Walksorganised for many weekends in allover the country and abroad.www.goc.org.ukGender TrustTS information and counselling.07000 790 347Get RealWeekly LGBT social groupsin South Tyneside.0191 483 5606 (Tony)0191 416 2324 (Dave)lgbtsouthtyneside@yahoo.co.ukHart GablesAdvice, support, social groups, tripsout and events for LGBT people in andaround Hartlepool.www.hartgables.org.uk01429 236 790HIV+ Men’s Group Discreet service for HIV+ gay andbisexual men, meets weekly in centralNewcastle. Offering support andsocial activities.all@mesmacnortheast.com0191 233 1333 (Mesmac)Junior Tees Gay Valley For under 16s. Meets 5-7pm Tuesdays. 01642 804 400LBi TeessideAll LBi women welcome.lwlteesside@hotmail.co.ukwww.lwlteesside.blogspot.comLesbian & Gay ParentsCoffee GroupFor lesbian and gay parents, parentsto-be,or those considering parenthood.Meet for coffee and chats about all thingsparent related in Middlesbrough.missingubrokemylife@hotmail.comLesbian LineInformation, advice and referral service.newcastlelesbianline@hotmail.comFacebook ‘Newcastle LesbianLine’07502 388 841 (will ring back)Lesbifriends North EastFace to face support and friendship.lesbifriendsne@live.co.ukwww.lesbifriendsne.btik.comFacebook ‘Lesbifriends NorthEast’07773 558 776Lesbians who LunchSocial and support group for women inand around Durham. Meet for lunchmonthly, and more.lwldurham@hotmail.com07768 072 850 (PJ)LGBT Inclusion OfficerDevelopment and activities-support forLGBT community in Middlesbroughlesley.duggan@mvdauk.org.ukwww.lbwn.co.uk01642 803 607 (Lesley Duggan)Married Men’s Support Confidential one-to-one support andadvice on topics such as the law, safersex, and relationship difficulties.www.gaydads.co.uk (National)0191 233 1333 (Mesmac)MetropolitanCommunity ChurchRun for and by gay men and lesbiansat St James United Reform Church. Holdsweekly Sunday evening services andregional weekly meetings.www.mccnewcastle.org.uk07770 543 4070191 460 9880 (Ian)0191 265 0171 (Emily)Mesmac North EastPromotes sexual and mental health.Offers 1-1 counselling, general supportand support groups for gay / bi men.0191 233 1333 (Newcastle)01642 804 400 (Middlesbrough)

takes... in the communitya-zMonday Night Mix@ Hart Gables. Meets in Hartlepool.Participants determine that evening’sactivities. Everyone welcome.01429 236 790 (Alan)MorpethLGBT Support GroupFortnightly meetings.07980 260 345NAZHIV & AIDSNational helpline for South Asian gay andbisexual men. Bengali, Gujerati, Hindi,Punjabi, Tamil and Urdu spoken.0208 741 1879 (m-f 9.30-5.30pm)NE TransgenderSocial and psychological supportfor TS/TV people.07799 598 843 (Emma)NE LGBT Parenting GroupInformal group for people with children,or thinking of becoming parents.07837 608 564 (Anna)mail@arwhite.co.ukNEOLNOver 40s lesbian group. Meets once amonth. Now also meets for brunch.www.neoln.btik.com0191 261 2277Newcastle CollegeLGBT SocietyStudent-only LGBT group meetsWednesdays 5-6pm and Thursdays12-1pm. Contact LGBT Officers c/oStudents’ Union, Parsons Building.0191 200 4525Newcastle LBiBadminton GroupMeet every month at eldon leisure centre(£2 per doubles session). All abilitieswelcome. Contact lesbian line for info.newcastlelesbianline@hotmail.com07502 388 841 (will ring back)Newcastle PanthersNewcastle’s first proud all-gay footballteam wants new players.newcastlepanthers@hotmail.co.uk07528 038 981(Russell)Newcastle RavensFor players and supporters of gayfriendlyrugby. Meets Mondays 7-9pmat the Novos pitch, Benton, Newcastle.info@newcastleravens.co.ukNewcastle UniversityLGBT SocietyMeets during term time only. ContactLGB Officers via Students’ Union.0191 239 3936Northallerton Gay Mens’Support GroupMonthly meetings and socials.0190 462 0400 (Pete)North EastGay Asylum GroupHelps support and open up socialopportunities to North East asylumseekers.simon@lgbtfed.comNorthumbria UniversityLGBT ForumMeets during term in the ‘Annexe’. Opento non-students. Social events, speakers,support, trips out. Confidential.0191 227 3737 (Students’ Union)OutlineFor lesbian / bi women in N Tyneside,and those unsure of their sexuality.Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday of eachmonth, 6-8pm in Howden.outline@orange.net07896 702 290(Wed 5-8pm only. Text other times)OutpostSupport, advice, information andaccommodation for young LGBTpeople aged 16-25 years.www.outpostproject.org0191 281 0099Parents Enquiry NEAdvice and support group (meets every2 months) for parents of LGBT people.penejoan@supanet.comwww.parentsofgays.co.uk0191 455 2868 (Joan)01642 370 230 (Jill) after 6pmPlusGroup for young LGB people under25 years. Meets Tuesdays 6-8pm incentral Gateshead.0191 490 1699 (Pam, Mark, Steve)0800 422 0200 (Press Option 5)Positive LivingSupport services for HIV+ people,partners, family & carers in Darlingtonand Durham.01325 252 522Rape CrisisProvides a range of specialistservices for women and girls whohave experienced sexual violence- as adults or as children.www.rapecrisis.org.ukREACHOffers help to men and women whohave been raped or sexually assaulted,and were aged 16 or over when theassault occurred.www.reachcentres.co.uk0191 221 9222 (Newcastle)Rock n DorisMonthly live music and disco forlesbians, gay men and their friends.www.facebook.com/rockndorisSouth Tyneside CollegeLGBT Grouplgbt@stc.ac.ukSpeak OutHate crime reporting in the Teessidearea. Report in confidence to either...01642 804 400 (Mesmac)01642 803 607 (MVDA)StagConfidential sexuality and safer sexadvice & information for gay & bisexualmen in Gateshead and South Tyneside.Offers scene alternatives, accessto safer sex resources.Meet Mondaysfrom 7.30pm in central Gateshead.0191 490 1699 (Mark or Steve)Street LevelSupport group for HIV/AIDS people;partners, family and carers. Womenonlysessions available.0191 455 3027Sunderland UniversityLGBT SocietyMeets Wednesday evenings 7.30pmat the Bonded Warehouse.0191 514 5512 (Andrew)Super SundaysBi-monthly dining group for LGBTpeople. Meets Sunday afternoons atvarious venues across the region.dining@lgbtfed.comTea with DorothyMonthly LGBT get-together forafternoon tea. Open to all LGBT over50’s and their friends.0191 514 8321 (Sunderland)0191 287 7014 (N Tyneside)Tees Gay ValleyA fun, friendly and safe place to makefriends, socialise and be yourself. Opento all young gay or bisexual men aged16 -25. Meets Tuesday’s 7-9pm. 01642 804 400Teesside Positive ActionSupport group for HIV+/AIDS people,partners, family & carers. Also complementarytherapies and education.01642 254 598Teesside Trans Group@ Hart Gables. Social support, activitiesand more. Meets Tuesdays 7-9pm01429 236 790 (Joanne)Teesside UniversityLGBT Society01642 342 234 (LGBT officer)Tipping The PagesLBi group meets once a month ineateries in newcastle area to discussthe latest books and films. Contactnewcastlelesbianline@hotmail.com(put ‘FAO Book Group’ in subject line)Facebook ‘Tipping the Pages’Tyneside YoungWomen’s ProjectYoung women under 25, lesbian, bi,or think they might be, can talk inconfidence. Meets weekly in centralNewcastle. Offers issue-based groupwork and range of social activities.07540 896 121UNISON LGBT GroupRegional LGBT Unison membersmeet in Newcastle.0191 245 0806Women4WomenSocial/support group for LBi womenin Tyneside. Meets regularly.women4womenuk@hotmail.comwww.women4womenuk.netFacebook ‘women4womennorth east’07722 718 232WOW(Women On Women)Based in Darlington - covering CountyDurham & North Yorkshire. Support,friendship, discos and social activitiesfor lesbian & bi women.07939 946 64501325 462 418 (Sandy)WOWI(Wansbeck Out With It!)Fortnightly social and support groupfor aged 13 to 19 who are LGBT orquestioning their sexuality and livearound Wansbeck.www.tyarainbow.org.uk01670 531 843 (office)07790 823 040 (LGBT worker)31northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com 31

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takes... horoscopeshoroscopesby jasmine starraries21 march-april 19You’re possibly feeling a little out ofsorts? Maybe you’ve not been to thegym and are feeling unfit? You could tryout some alternative exercise like yoga.You’ll be amazed at the effects on yourself-esteem when you make an effortwith your body’s conditioning. Of coursethere’s the added bonus of meetingsome new friends at the classes,which could lead to more...leo23 july-august 22You and your partner have some issuesto deal with. You’ve been disagreeingabout something or someone fromyour past. Surely it’s time to move onnow? Once you do, you’ll wonder whatall the fuss has been about. But there’sone subject you should approach withcaution - money. That topic is bestavoided unless you want anotherflare-up! There is however a pleasantsurprise in store for you which shouldrestore your spirits!sagittarius22 november-december 21Have you been frivolous with yourwallet lately? Overspent a bit? After aneye-opening bank statement you’ll bemotivated to prove to all that you canwork the other way too. Paying off anydebts to close friends - your partner willprobably be top of your list. Try beinga bit more candid about your finances,especially if you share bills or expenses.Your partner will be forever grateful!taurus20 april-may 20You should expect a call from a closerelative. Perhaps you’ve not been takingcare of your commitments to them?Be shrewd, listen to their commentsand accept that you have to do a bitmore. An argument can be avoided ifyou are willing to compromise. At work,you can expect some good news, butnot everyone will hear it. By keepingmum about it, it might serve you better.virgo23 august-september 22You might get an unusual request forhelp from an unlikely source. It mayappear that they are stringing youalong, but they are actually genuinelyin need of your help. They are lookingto you to share your experienceswith them. Even though you might notfeel that close to them you will derivepleasure from being able to help themout. See it as your good turn forthe month!capricorn22 december-january 19You have a knack of stealing thelimelight sometimes, but just once howabout letting somebody different doso? It might be interesting to sit backand watch them get all the plaudits.There’s a sense of excitement in theair, and with it will come the temptationto splash out a bit. Well why not?Spend some time with friends - havefun, enjoy yourself and get a couple ofrounds in yourself for a change!gemini21 may-june 20You may not have too many holidayplans this summer. But so what? Youhave plenty to occupy you at home -and your friends and family relish yourcompany. You might get an invitationto a party from a stranger. It’s worthfollowing it up, since it might lead toa surprise liaison! Be careful thoughabout whom you confide in - what yousay might be misinterpreted and couldcome back to bite you on the bum!libra23 september-october 22Busy times at the moment for you:you might be falling behind with someactivities. There is a respite ahead- don’t worry. Just make sure youprioritise the most important things.Everything will eventually fall into place.If you have travel plans, they look setto be disrupted, so plan a contingency.If you were planning to catch up withfamily or friends abroad you mighthave to settle for a phone call or webchat instead.aquarius20 january-february 18You’re getting a lot of satisfaction froma major project that is taking up a lot ofyour time. If it’s been a bit hectic latelythen it is about to get a little easier.Some news shortly will ease yourworries. Stay focused and resolute, andthe rewards will be huge. Friends andcolleagues will be impressed at yourwork ethic, and will be keen to spendtime with you - if you actually want totake a break of course!cancer21 june-july 22Don’t be tempted to let your partner’sgenerosity get out of hand. You have apenchant for indulging their kindness.Try telling them how much you alsoenjoy the simple things in life. It willease the pressure on their wallet andthey will thank you for it! You will besurprised at how much fun can be hadfrom down-to-earth activities, and itcould well bring you and your partnercloser together as a result.scorpio23 october-november 21Not one for always pushing the boatout, you’ll be overcome by a waveof extreme confidence, and want toexplore new horizons. You might findyourself planning a visit abroad, or aweekend away with someone close.With money matters, your new foundadventurous streak might lead you tomake some risky decisions. The old youwill soon return though, so don’t be toohasty about signing your life away!pisces19 february-march 20You’re in a giving mood, so whynot give some of your time up to acharitable cause? It could pay dividendsin your social life. You are set to makesome new friends and it could be reallygood for your sense of wellbeing. Atwork, you’ll find doors starting to openfor you, and bosses more responsiveto your ideas. A promotion or pay risemay not be too far away if you playyour cards right.34northeast / issue 21 / outnortheast.com

sceneJoin other groups, individualsand organisations who want tochange attitudes and behaviourstowards lgbt communities.mail@lgbtfed.comnewcastle@one1 malborough cres · 0191 260 38414pm – ‘til latebuy one get one free on pints, doublesand bottles · sunday-thursdaysupfront saturdays · dj lady kayupfront & classic housesaturday eveningthe bank12 scotswood rd · 0191 230 386312 noon – 1ammiss kitty / kkk · monday from 9pmstep back in time · miss kitty & boysdecades of tunes, fancy dress& gameshows · wednesday eveninganything goes · topkatzkaraoke & disco · thursday eveningweekend starter · miss roryfriday eveninglarger than life party · vicky parissaturday eveningmiss kitty & top katzsunday 5-9pmophelia balls.comsunday 9pm-2amstaff cabaret showsunday from 10pmlive cabaretsunday from 11pmthe dog15 westmorland road · 0191 221 077512 noon – midnightthe eagle42 scotswood road5pm – 11pmeclipse48 clayton street west · 0191 230 279511am – midnightgossip7-9 westmoreland rd · 0191 261 682411am – 1amheaven’s above2 scotswood road · 0191 232 20378pm – 1am · except tuesthe loft4 - 10 scotswood road · 0191 261 534811pm – 3ampowerhouse7-9 westmoreland rd · 0191 261 5348thursday 11pm – 3.30amfriday 11pm – 4amsaturday 11pm – 6amsunday 11pm – 3.30amswitch4 - 10 scotswood road · 0191 261 534811am – 1amthe yard2 scotswood road · 0191 232 20371pm – 2ammiddlesbroughbasementalbert roadsatur-gaysaturday £5 · 11pm - 3.30ampop boudoir late with paige turnersunday 11.30pm – 3.00amblualbert roadblu cheese with david bournetues 8pm - midnightpop boudoir with duchess davinyasunday free entry · 7pm - midnightcassidys41 – 45 grange roaddj matt nevinfriday 7pm – 2amdj richard kellsaturday 7pm – 2amdj matt nevinsunday 7pm – 2amthe cornerhouseexchange place11pm – 3.30amthe oak23 newport road · 01642 219 7487pm – 11pmsatur-gay pre-partysaturday 7pm – 1amcherry pop · dj david bourne + guestssunday 7pm – 2amsunderlandthe black bull309 high street west ·0191 567 5702dragoke7pm - lateglass spider4 green terrace · 0191 567 7272crisco disco after partytues £1 · 10pm - 3amluma15 – 17 derwent street · 0191 514 5111lumalicious with ophelia ballstues 9pm – midnightttonic12 vine place · 0191 565 5755crisco disco · dj t-pot + miss trixietues 8pm – 1amdarlingtonavalon8 blackwellgate · 01325 469 977release8pm – midnightinside outbeaumont street westgay mondaysmidnight – 4amjoes barimperial centre, grange road01325 464 642gaylicious cabaret7pm – midnightretroskinnergatekaraoke with queeny queers8pm – midnightseenbeaumont streetgay mondays pre party · dj michelle8pm - 1am