Olympic diver Tom Daley has teamed up with an LGBT+ charity for the first time to help promote the services it provides.
TOM, a Bronze Medallist at the London Olympics is to become a Patron of Switchboard, LGBT+ helpline.
Switchboard is the new name for the London Lesbian & Gay Switchboard (LLGS).
The charity, which celebrated its 40th birthday last year, provides confidential phone, e-mail and instant messaging services to support people who want to talk about sexuality and gender identity.
Tom said: “I’m so excited to be working with Switchboard. I’ve seen first-hand the vital work the volunteers do and the passion they have. The name change reflects that it’s not about labels, it’s about making sure everyone has someone to talk to when they need it most, whether that’s on the phone or through messaging.”
Earlier this month, urged his 2.5 million followers to join him in uploading a #SwitchboardSelfie to show their support for Switchboard and he will be attending the gala tomorrow night at The Waldorf Hilton Hotel in London (Thursday, June 25) to help launch the charity’s new name.
Nuala O’Sullivan, Switchboard’s Co-Chair, said: “It’s fantastic that Tom has become one of our patrons,”
“He’s a huge role model for so many young people and will help us to spread the message that we provide a safe and confidential space where their concerns can be listened to and talked through.”
Although homophobic bullying in schools is reported to be decreasing, a survey last year found that more than half of gay young people had experienced either discrimination or harassment.
Dave Maher, Switchboard’s Co-Chair, added: “So much is changing for our LGBT+ communities, and so is our name, to make it clear that we’re here for everyone regardless of where they live or how they choose to define their sexuality and gender identity.
“For many young people, in particular, it’s not always easy to find the support they need at such a crucial time in their lives but our volunteers are here with calm words when they need them most.”
More than fifteen thousand people use Switchboard’s services every year to talk about subjects including coming out, bullying, and sexual health. Helpline volunteers are trained to listen, signpost people to specialist services, and to support them to make informed decisions for themselves.
For more information about the gala relaunch event at The Waldorf Hilton, click here:
Switchboard is a voluntary organisation with charitable status whose aim is to provide an information, support and referral service for anyone who needs to consider issues around sexuality and gender identity.