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The LGBTQ+ community has come a long way in recent years, with greater acceptance and visibility than ever before. However, many members of the community still face discrimination, stigma, and isolation in their daily lives. This is where LGBTQ+ online social groups can be a valuable resource, providing a safe and supportive environment for people to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges.

Our Zoom groups are called HangOuts, and we run HangOuts for people over 50, South Asian men, LGBTQ+, Trans+, people in Lambeth and anyone in the LGBTQ+ community. You can join us HERE.  

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Why should you join one of our HangOuts (or any online social group)?

1) A sense of community and connection

One of the primary benefits of joining an online LGBTQ+ Zoom social group is the sense of community and connection it provides. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community feel isolated or misunderstood in their daily lives, especially if they live in areas where there are few visible LGBTQ+ people and venues. By joining a Zoom social group, we can connect with others who share similar experiences, interests, and challenges. This can provide a valuable source of support, understanding, and validation, which can be especially important for those who may not have a support system in their daily lives. 

2) A safe and supportive environment

LGBTQ+ individuals may face discrimination and stigma in their daily lives, which can make it challenging to find safe and supportive spaces to connect with others. LGBTQ+ Zoom social groups are designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment where participants can share their experiences and feelings without fear of judgment or stigma. This can be especially beneficial for those who may be struggling with challenges such as health issues. 

3) Access to resources and information

Facilitators and participants of LGBTQ+ Zoom groups often experience the same challenges and questions, meaning they can share helpful information. This can provide a valuable opportunity for individuals to learn from others, ask questions, and gain new insights. Some information is not a simple as ‘Googling it’, and communicating with others becomes essential. Whether it's information about coming out, navigating relationships, or finding resources in their local area, joining an LGBTQ+ Zoom social group can give you the opportunity to share your knowledge and support others, or find answers you need.  

4) A platform for advocacy and social change

LGBTQ+ Zoom social groups can also serve as a platform for advocacy and social change. By bringing people together from diverse backgrounds and experiences, these groups can promote understanding and empathy, which can help to break down barriers and reduce stigma. They can also serve as a platform for advocacy and social change by raising awareness of important issues and encouraging individuals to act. People may want to attend Pride events, volunteer with local LGBTQ+ organizations, or contact MPs about important issues. LGBTQ+ Zoom social groups can encourage and empower participants to get involved and make a difference. 

5) A source of comfort and inspiration

Finally, LGBTQ+ Zoom social groups can be a source of comfort and inspiration for individuals who may be struggling. Seeing others who have overcome similar challenges or who are working through similar issues can provide hope and encouragement. This can be especially important when people first come out or if they do not know many other LGBTQ+ people, when many people can feel isolated, instead bringing them together.  

Joining an LGBTQ+ Zoom social group can provide many benefits for queer people, including a sense of community and connection, a safe and supportive environment, access to resources and information, a platform for advocacy and social change, and a source of comfort and inspiration. You could connect with others who share similar experiences, learn something new, or find support during a difficult time.  

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Find a HangOut for you on our upcoming social groups page HERE