Safeguarding

Queer Community is precious, and we want everyone in HQS to feel safe, supported and valued when they spend time with us.

Feel free to check out our safeguarding resources below if you are looking for support.

Talk to the Committee

Our Safeguarding Lead Hannah is available by WhatsApp dm for anyone who has a concern that they want to discuss, or who wants some wider support while they are struggling.

Please reach out if:

• Have a safety or well-being concern regarding any HQS member or HQS event
• You are struggling with a problem and don’t know what to do
• Wish to be signposted to an appropriate service

All messages will be kept private, and not discussed with others without your permission.

HQS Resource Directory

If you have wider struggles that you are seeking support for (be it debt, mental health, addiction, housing, or one of any other number of issues), you are welcome to peruse our resource directory.

This is a list of free services, local and national, that can help and provide advice.

We try to screen all our resources to ensure they are trans-friendly, and we keep records of which services have been endorsed by members.

You are welcome to use the directory yourself, or ask Hannah, our Safeguarding Officer, for assistance.

Our directory is an evolving resource so if you have a suggestion for something that is not currently included, or a comment on something that is, feel free to message Hannah with your notes!

HQS Resource Directory Browse our local and national support resources →

Peer Support

Watch out for announcements of our new PEER SUPPORT SPACE, which will be introduced soon.

This will include:

• A new online Peer Support forum where we can vent our issues and emotionally support each other (anonymously if you so choose)
• And a periodic group meet to allow up to support each other in person

If you are ever concerned about yourself or another member being taken advantage of by someone, you are welcome to speak privately with a committee member.

First Light Information and support around grooming →

None of our support constitutes medical, legal or professional advice of any kind. Please regard our support as a group of queer friends being there for each other.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your community. We wish you a happy and safe time in HQS 🙂