We’re delighted that Space Youth Project are our Community Heroes in the Spotlight for February. Running for more than 20 years, they offer much needed support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT+) young people, under 25, across the whole of Dorset. 

Their CEO, Helen Walsh told us ‘Sadly, we’re needed because some people are still not as kind, loving and accepting as they ought to be, which causes unhappiness and distress for LGBT+ young people.  This is especially the case for trans people. Trans' is an umbrella term for those who are transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, agender, are of non-Western gender identities and those who have a trans history. 

In 2023 we are looking forward to helping young people be happier, educating others to be more understanding and generally keeping up our groups, events, one to ones, going into schools and colleges and upskilling professionals.’

Space Youth Project offer a wide range of support. All their groups are completely free, run by qualified youth workers and dedicated volunteers. They offer peer to peer support and informative conversations on coming out, transitioning, sexual health, job hunting and more.

Sessions are drop-in where people can meet others, make friends, and be unashamedly themselves.

Space Youth Project hold Trans Family Days for Dorset’s transgender young people (including those questioning or gender non-conforming) and their families: parents/carers, siblings, significant relatives.  These structured sessions offer an opportunity to meet other families, professionals and young  people in a safe, supportive environment. They take place every two months and tour across Dorset. The next will be in March, 2023.  

There’s also one-to-one support on offer for people under 25 who are especially vulnerable. A one-to-one session allows the young person to be in a non-judgmental space with someone who will assist in empowering them to take control of their own life through support, guidance, advice or signposting.

​During a session the young person begins to develop an understanding of their feelings and life experiences so that, over time, they learn to deal more appropriately with life’s adversities. Sessions provide ongoing support that is alongside mainstream services or can help a young person access
mainstream services.

Space Youth Project offers school-based workshops, assemblies and training for professionals such as youth workers, social/health workers or anyone wanting to support LGBT+ young people. All training is delivered by their experienced and qualified team.

​CAN’s Engagement Lead, Hannah Rees, said:

‘We’re so glad to be able to support Space Youth Project by highlighting the wide range of support they offer for LGBT+ young people, their families, friends and teachers. There is no doubt that this support not only enriches lives, but also saves lives.

Discrimination or prejudice of any kind has no place in society. Love is love!’