LGBT+ charity launches conversion therapy helpline as government sets out plan to ban it
The helpline will be available from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
A charity has warned that a government consultation on banning coercive conversion therapy could traumatise victims.
Galop, the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity, has launched a national conversion therapy helpline as the Government sets out its proposals to ban the coercive practice in England and Wales.
The charity said a ban is “very much welcomed” by the LGBT+ community, but there are concerns that the consultation and surrounding debate “may prove traumatising for victims and survivors”.
Chief executive Leni Morris said: “Being LGBT+ is not a disease, and therefore there is no cure.
“What so-called ‘conversion therapies’ do achieve is serious psychological and emotional, and sometimes physical, trauma to the victims and, for many victims, the repercussions are lifelong.
“The conversion therapy ban is a step forward for our community, but we know that the spotlight it gives to these practices may cause pain and trauma to those who are experiencing these abuses right now, or have been through them in the past.
“We’re launching our national conversion therapy helpline to support the community and ensure that there is a safety net for victims as this national conversation continues.”
The helpline will be available between 10am and 4pm from Monday to Friday, by phone on 0800 130 3335, and email at CThelpgalop.org.uk.
A Crowdfunder page has been set up for people to support the costs of the helpline.
It comes as the government said it would be funding a support service for victims and those at risk of conversion therapy.
It will launch a tender process in November.
Reporting by PA
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments