There are many difficulties which affect relationships, for example, depression, money worries, unsatisfying sex lives, family issues etc. Lesbian gay bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people can also face additional difficulties. Their relationships may be seen as less valid than heterosexual relationships, and pressures such as homophobia and transphobia can be experienced, both within their families and in the wider community. It can therefore be helpful for LGBT people to receive support from a relationship counsellor who has an understanding and awareness of the particular issues that affect them and their relationships.

PROUD 2 CONNECT is a service provided by Relate in partnership with Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard. The service provides relationship counselling to LGBT people, delivered by Relate counsellors who identify as LGBT, and have been specifically selected for this project.

PROUD 2 CONNECT is here to help you. The counsellor's role is to listen, to encourage you to talk openly about your concerns, and to help you to reach your own decisions about the best way forward.

Enquiries about the service can be made to either organisation but to make an appointment contact Relate.

The Switchboard help-line is on 01273 204050 (from 5pm daily) or contact Switchboard's Services and Development Manager on 01273 207050.