Help LGBTQIA+ Communities and Support Groups
If you’re a young LGBTQIA+ person, you’re already part of a special community. There are loads of online or in-person groups you can join to find extra support or just chat with other young LGBTQIA+ people. Find your people here.
Support and social groups
There are lots of groups in Leeds that welcome young LGBTQIA+ people and encourage you to connect and find support.
Out 2 18
LGBTQ group for young people aged 13 to 18.
The group meet on alternate Thursdays at a city centre location (6.30pm – 8.30pm.
Find out more informationTranstastic
Youth group for people aged 13 to 18 who identify as Trans.
The group meets on alternate Thursdays at a city centre location (6.30pm – 8.30pm).
Find out more information
Yorkshire MESMAC
MESMAC has a variety of social and support groups for you to join in Leeds. Visit their website to find one for you.
Go to website
LSLCS LGBT+ Group
Leeds Survivor-Led Crisis Service run an LGBT+ Group every Friday 11am-2pm from Dial House, LS15 7RW.
The group is a safe, supportive space where you can share your thoughts and feelings alongside other LGBT+ people.
Find out more informationTrans/Non-Binary Peer Support Group
Leeds Survivor-Led Crisis Service and Gender Outreach Workers run a trans & non-binary support group every third Monday 2–4pm at MESMAC, Blayds Yard, LS1 4AD.
The group is for anyone who identifies as transgender, or has identified as transgender in the past, including non-binary people and anyone questioning their gender identity. The group is followed by a sexual health clinic and social group as part of a trans wellbeing hub.
Find out more information
Gendered Intelligence
In person and online support groups open to all trans young people aged 13-30, no matter how you identify or whether you are questioning your gender.
The group meet on the 2nd Tuesday of every month 6-8pm.
Find out more information
Live Well Leeds LGBT+ Social Group
Social group with the aim for members of the LGBTQIA+ to connect with each other and improve their mental wellbeing in an inclusive and relaxed environment.
The group meets every wednesday 12:30-2:30pm in Leeds City Centre.
For more information:
Call 0113 2192727
Mermaids
The Mermaids Youth Community offers a safe and supportive space for members to connect.
Fill out application now
Positive Identities
Support sessions delivered in schools, organisations and wider communities to provide safe spaces for the LGBTQ community. Sessions are aimed at trans and questioning young people aged 13-19 and parents or carers.
To find out more or to receive a referral pack:
Call 0113 393 3200Gender Space
Remote support for trans young people aged 12-18 in the North of England. Support takes place through one-to-one or groups sessions and is also available for parents and carers.
To find out more or to receive a referral pack:
Call 0113 239 5581
Wellbeing hour
Support for young people aged between 13 and 25, in West Leeds, who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. The Wellbeing Hour offer 1:1 support through mentoring, up to 12 weeks of counselling support and group workshops where you can explore issues that are important to you and meet new people.
Download their flyer to find out how to get in touch.
Download nowFurther education groups
If you’re in further or higher education in Leeds, chances are you’ll find dedicated LGBTQIA+ support groups at your college or uni. Here are just a couple, backed by student unions.
Leeds University Student Union
Join the LGBT+ Society at LUU and visit their free Coffee Hour between 12-2pm Monday to Friday during term time. They also host a huge range of regular social events during term time, from board game nights to raves, from film screenings to lectures and discussions.
Find one which is right for you!
Go to website
Leeds Beckett Student Union
Leeds Beckett’s Equals Society (LGBTQ*) pride themselves on creating a community where students can find friends to support one another through their time at university. They host a range of events from coffee mornings, games nights and other fun social get-togethers.
Visit their website to find out more information.
Go to website
Leeds City College Student Union
Leeds City College LGBTQ+ Society provides a safe space for those who identiry as LGBTQ+ to be fully themselves without fear of judgement, criticism or discrimination.
Find out more on their website.
Go to websiteSpaces and activities
You’re in the right place. There are LGBT-friendly spaces in Leeds where you’ll be accepted for who you are and how you identify. You’ll meet other young people, make new friends and build your confidence in a safe setting.
The Bookish Type
The Bookish Type is a bookshop that identifies as ‘queer/indie’ and is based in the Merrion Centre.
They often run events and aim to create a safe community for anyone to join.
Find out more information on their website.
Go to websiteAngels of Freedom
Angels of Freedom have a wellbeing and social café which is a family friendly LGBT+ affirmative provision.
Find out more on their website.
Go to the website
Active Leeds
Active Leeds have a list of sport and physical activities specifically aimed for the LGBTQIA+ community to join.
Visit their website to find an activity for you.
Go to websiteWant to find out more information about LGBTQIA+?
Discover great resources on our LGBTQIA+ support page here.
