Successful launch for Young Jewish LGBT group

25 young people age 16-21 met in North London on Sunday for the first meeting of the Young Jewish LGBT group. Part of the Jewish Gay & Lesbian Group, the sub group has a youth committee made up of youth workers, advice workers and counsellors.

The group will be providing a regular programme of activities including speakers, discussions, film nights, outings and socials and is planning to attend Gay Pride in June. The youth leaders are also available to give support to young people who may be questioning their sexuality or need advice on how to come out to their families.

The group will be working closely with the UJIA, Keshet and the Union of Jewish Students as well as the youth movements . Members travelled from Birmingham, Bournemouth and Brighton to join in the activity.

Many of the young people who attended are not ‘out’ to family and friends and this gave them the opportunity to mix with others in a safe and supportive social environment.

One young member, Jack, said “I had been looking for something like this for ages.  I’m so pleased that this group exists for young people.”

Karen Lewis, Chair of the committee said, “Young people are joining up almost on a daily basis which shows how necessary this group is. There is no other provision like this in the UK.

We currently have 40 members and we expect that to expand once word gets out about what we provide.  Some of the young people who came to the event were anxious to start with but all left with smiles on their faces.”

• To find out more message Sam Latke on Facebook or email sam@jglg.org.uk