LGBTQ+ training, working with Conversations Over Boarders, who facilitate the IRIS((International Rainbow Inclusion Service) group and Inclusive peer support/drop-ins
About the service and what to expect
Switchboard is for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) people looking for community, support or information. The team connect people and support them directly through specially developed Switchboard services or link them to other specialist organisations.
Switchboard’s in-house services include Domestic Abuse IDVAs, Bereavement Support, Older People’s Group, Dementia Support, TNBI (Transgender, Non-Binary, Inter-sex) Social Prescribing, MRAS (Migrant, Refugee, Asylum-Seeker) Social Prescribing.
LGBTQ+ training
Switchboard will work with MHSS Brighton & Hove Partners and the wider network to offer training. Their training is informed by our 47 years of experience of on-the-ground work with LGBTQ+ communities, our community research and our engagement with mainstream and specialist healthcare providers and other services.
Find out more about their training programmes here
Conversations Over Boarders- IRIS group
Switchboard will work with Conversations Over Boarders, who facilitate the IRIS (International Rainbow Inclusion Service) group offering case work support
IRIS is a free service for LGBTQ+ refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, and those questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity. IRIS was co-founded in 2023 by Switchboard and Conversations Over Borders. As of 2025, the weekly social groups are now run solely by Conversations Over Borders, while Switchboard provides 1-to-1 social prescribing casework.
The aim remains the same: to support LGBTQ+ newcomers to the UK as they adjust to life here, helping to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing in a safe and inclusive environment.
Further Information
For more information and to discuss accessing support from Switchboard please call 0808 196 1768 to speak to a friendly member of our Central Access Point team. Alternatively, if you would prefer, you can arrange a callback.
