Liverpool, get ready – Drag & Drop II is back, and this year, it’s bigger, bolder, and braver than ever!
On Saturday 19th July, some of Liverpool’s fiercest drag queens and community champions will take on the ultimate challenge: abseiling from the top of Liverpool Cathedral—all in support of Sahir, the city region’s longest-running LGBTQ+ and HIV support charity.
Meet Our Brave Abseilers
This year’s line-up is nothing short of spectacular! Leading the charge is none other than the fabulous Debbie Darling, returning for a second year after proving she’s got both the glamour and the guts! She’ll be joined by the dazzling Naya Thorn and the sensational Carmen Sutra, who are ready to make their fearless descent in full drag.
But they won’t be going down alone! Also taking the plunge are: ✨ Cllr Carl Cashman – a passionate ally to our LGBTQ+ community. ☕ Sarah Lovelocks, owner of Lovelocks Coffee Shop, a long-time supporter of Sahir.
Together, these incredible individuals are putting their nerves to the test—all to raise vital funds for Sahir.
Why Are We Doing This?
At Sahir, we believe that everyone should be able to live their lives as authentically as possible. For 40 years, we’ve been a lifeline for people across the Liverpool City Region, offering essential services such as:
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Support – Advocacy, mental health services, and community projects to help LGBTQ+ people thrive. 🎗 HIV Support & Education – Confidential advice, testing, peer support, and resources for people living with or affected by HIV.
With demand for our services growing, fundraising events like Drag & Drop II are crucial in ensuring we can continue providing life-changing support to those who need it most.
How You Can Help
🎉 Come and cheer on our abseilers! Join us at Liverpool Cathedral and witness the drop in action – our timeslot is 11:40am – 12pm! 💖 Donate today! Every contribution helps us reach more people with vital LGBTQ+ and HIV support. 🔗 Click here to sponsor a queen, an ally, or a coffee shop legend – be sure to donate to the individual you want to support, or the main page!
💬 “Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. Your support means we can continue to provide safe spaces, support services, and continue to champion Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ community and those living with HIV.” – Ant Hopkinson, CEO.
Whether you’re watching from below, sharing our story, or making a donation, you’re helping to change lives. Thank you for standing with Sahir as we continue our vital work.
Liverpool is set to host an unforgettable evening celebrating music, diversity, and unity—all for a great cause! On Friday, 16 May 2025, at 7:30 PM, OMG Liverpool will be the venue for Eurovision All Stars for Sahir, an exciting event in support of Sahir.
About Sahir
For 40 years, Sahir has been a vital part of supporting both Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ community and those living withHIV. As a charity, Sahir works tirelessly to combat stigma, offer essential services, and create a more inclusive society.
This special event will help raise funds to ensure Sahir can continue offering vital support to those living with or affected by HIV, as well as providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals in need of advice, advocacy, and community.
An Evening of Eurovision Magic
Expect a night filled with show-stopping Eurovision performances, dazzling costumes, and plenty of surprises! This is more than just a cabaret performance – it’s a celebration of queer joy, music, and solidarity. Following the huge success of December’s Snatch Game for Sahir, local queer performers are coming together once again to put on a spectacular show, featuring some of the biggest Eurovision hits of all time.
Whether you’re a lifelong Eurovision fan or just love an incredible night out, this event is your chance to experience an electrifying atmosphere while supporting an important cause.
Get Your Tickets Now!
Early Bird tickets are available from just £8. Secure your spot now and be part of an unmissable evening that celebrates music, community, and inclusion.
With Liverpool’s deep-rooted musical heritage and love for Eurovision, this is set to be one of the most exciting queer events of the year!
Support, Celebrate, and Make a Difference
By attending Eurovision All Stars for Sahir, you’re not just enjoying a fabulous night out—you’re directly contributing to Sahir’s work for the LGBTQ+ community and those living with HIV. Your support helps us continue educating, advocating, and providing life-changing services to those who need them most.
Music has the power to bring people together, and this event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Eurovision while showing solidarity with those affected by HIV and supporting LGBTQ+ rights.
Join Us!
Don’t miss out—secure your tickets today and be part of a night where music, community, and compassion come together for a brighter, more inclusive future.
This International Women’s Day (Friday, 8th March), Sahir is proud to celebrate all the women who play a vital role in our work – supporting the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV.
For 40 years, Sahir has been a lifeline for communities facing stigma, discrimination, and isolation. We recognise that gender-based inequality doesn’t affect everyone in the same way – and we remain committed to uplifting and supporting those most at risk.
We celebrate all women, including trans women, disabled women, women of colour, working-class women, and women living with HIV. We also recognise that non-binary, gender-diverse, and intersex people experience many of the same barriers and deserve support, inclusion, and respect.
Today, we highlight the incredible people leading this work and reflect on our ongoing commitment to inclusion and empowerment.
On the frontline of Sahir’s Work
Sahir’s services are led by dedicated individuals who provide essential support, advocacy, and community engagement:
Gill – LGBTQ+ Services & Operations Manager (she/her) Gill leads our LGBTQ+ support programmes, ensuring that Sahir continues to be a safe and inclusive space for everyone who needs us.
Kellie – HIV Services Manager (she/her) Kellie oversees our HIV support services, providing practical and emotional support to people living with HIV and working to reduce stigma.
Shereen – LGBTQ+ People Seeking Asylum & Refugee Lead (she/her) LGBTQ+ asylum seekers – particularly women and gender-diverse people – face multiple barriers to safety and support. Shereen ensures they receive advocacy, guidance, and access to essential services.
Rachael – Wirral HIV Support Worker (she/her) Based in Wirral, Rachael provides specialist one-to-one support for people living with HIV, helping them navigate services and maintain their well-being.
Ange – HIV Support Worker (she/her) Ange is dedicated to supporting people affected by HIV, offering guidance, advocacy, and a listening ear to those who need it most.
Kat – LGBTQ+ Community Engagement Worker(they/she) Kat works across Liverpool City Region to engage and connect LGBTQ+ people, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and supported.
A Long History of Inclusion & Support
At Sahir, we have always championed inclusion, diversity, and equality. Over the years, we have:
✅ Provided lifesaving HIV support services for women, trans people, and gender-diverse communities. ✅ Created safe spaces for LGBTQ+ women, non-binary, and intersex people to access peer support and community. ✅ Supported LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum, many of whom face additional barriers due to gender, race, and immigration status. ✅ Delivered education and advocacy to challenge HIV stigma, transphobia, and misinformation.
Our work is built on the belief that everyone deserves dignity, respect, and support – regardless of gender identity, sexuality, or background.
How You Can Get Involved
This International Women’s Day, we invite you to:
💜 Learn more about the experiences of LGBTQ+ women, trans women, non-binary people, and those affected by HIV. 💜 Engage with our services – whether you need support or want to volunteer. 💜 Help us challenge stigma by sharing information and raising awareness.
At Sahir, inclusion is more than a word – it’s at the heart of everything we do. Today and every day, we remain committed to supporting, uplifting, and standing alongside all those who need us.
💜 For more information about our work, visit sahir.org.uk.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to where you are today?
Leaving my homeland was not a choice I made lightly; it was a matter of survival. As a bisexual man, I was outed in my community, leading to persecution and fear for my life. I knew I had to leave my country to seek safety, which took me through multiple countries until I eventually arrived in the United Kingdom on a small boat crossing.
Once in the UK, I sought a safe space where I could connect with the LGBTQ+ community. That’s when I discovered Sahir, an organisation dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. It became a crucial part of my journey, helping me navigate trauma, build confidence, and find a sense of belonging. Thanks to their support, I was granted refugee status on 11th September 2024. With this newfound stability, I secured a job as a production operative and now look forward to advancing my career in healthcare and mental health nursing.
How did you first hear about Sahir, and what led you to connect with us?
I first heard about Sahir through a friend who was living in the same Home Office accommodation as me. At the time, he didn’t know about my sexual orientation but recommended Sahir for asylum support. When I first arrived, I was hesitant to open up about my identity and experiences. However, with time and trust, I was able to share my story and fully embrace my identity as a bisexual man.
In what ways has Sahir supported you, and what difference has that made in your life?
Sahir has been a lifeline for me. Through their support, I gained the confidence to speak about my sexual orientation, even with my GP—something I once found incredibly difficult. Meeting others from my community through peer support groups made me realise that I was not alone.
Beyond emotional support, Sahir also helped me tackle mental health challenges. I struggled with chronic alcoholism as a way of coping with trauma, but with the counselling and mental health support provided by Sahir, I was able to begin my recovery. Sahir became like a family to me—I no longer felt isolated.
Participating in activities such as yoga, English classes, and outdoor events gave me structure and purpose. Most importantly, Sahir guided me through the asylum process, which ultimately led to me being granted refugee status.
Where are you now on your journey, and what are you most proud of?
Today, I finally feel safe. I no longer live in fear of deportation or persecution. I am focused on building a career and giving back to the society that has welcomed me. I am incredibly proud of my confidence and my progress in overcoming depression. Recovery is a journey, but I am moving forward.
One of the things I am most proud of is being able to introduce others to Sahir. I know firsthand how life-changing their support can be, and I want to ensure that others in similar situations have access to the same help and community that I did.
What are your hopes for the future, and how can we continue to support you on your path?
Sahir has been, and continues to be, my family. I hope to always have access to their support when I face challenges that feel too big to handle alone. My dream is to become a mental health nurse, and I am currently receiving CBT therapy to help me along this path. With the right support and determination, I believe I can make a real difference in the lives of others who have faced similar struggles.
Why is LGBT+ History Month important to you?
LGBTQ+ History Month holds deep significance for me. It serves as a reminder of who I am, where I come from, and what I have been through. It acknowledges the struggles and victories of those who came before us while also highlighting the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
For me personally, it represents my journey—from the trauma of being outed and persecuted to the freedom of expressing myself openly in the United Kingdom. It also signifies my ability to support others, ensuring they too find the safety and belonging that I was fortunate enough to receive.
My journey has not been easy, but with the support of Sahir, I have found hope, strength, and a new sense of purpose. I am excited for what the future holds and grateful for the chance to build a life where I can truly be myself.
For anyone who may be in a similar position, know that you are not alone. There is support out there, and there is always hope.
We’re absolutely thrilled that Sahir has recently been featured on ITV’s Granada Reports and This Morning—two brilliant opportunities to shine a light on the work we do and the amazing people we support.
Granada Reports: Sharing Our Story
It was fantastic to see Granada Reports highlight Sahir and the incredible stories of those connected to us across our 40 year history, showcasing our widespread impact. A huge thank you to:
Paul Fisher, a service user and former trustee, for bravely sharing his journey and experiences.
John Hyland, our Community Partnerships Lead, for speaking about the vital work we do.
Kay Jones, Lead Curator at the Museum of Liverpool, for helping showcase the lasting impact of Sahir in the city in relation to the Holly Johnson Story exhibiton.
Their voices really brought home just how important it is to keep the conversation going around HIV and support services.
You can watch the piece here:
This Morning: A National Platform
We were also beyond grateful to be mentioned on This Morning, where Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley spoke to the brilliant Olly Alexander. Olly reflected on his recent visit to Liverpool, performing at Jacaranda Baltic, where he kindly spoke to members of our team about the work we do for the community, highlighting Sahir, alongside Brighton’s Sussex Beacon. It’s amazing to see someone with such a huge platform using it to talk about HIV awareness and the work being done across the UK, particularly in line with the global phenomenon TV series, It’s A Sin.
A Massive Thank You
Having these opportunities means the world to us. It helps us reach more people, challenge stigma, and remind everyone that support is out there. We’re so grateful to Granada Reports, This Morning, and Olly for giving us the space to share our work, and, most importantly, to the incredible people who continue to share their experiences.
If you want to learn more about what we do or how to get involved, head over to sahir.org.uk. 💜
On Friday, 14th February 2025, Sahir had the honour of welcoming Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP, the Member of Parliament for Wallasey and Minister of State for Border Security and Asylum. This visit coincided with National HIV Testing Week, demonstrating Sahir’s continued commitment to promoting HIV awareness and providing support to the LGBTQ+ community in the Liverpool City Region.
During her visit, Dame Angela met with CEO Ant Hopkinson and Community Partnership Lead, John Hyland, to learn more about Sahir’s rich history, current initiatives, and ambitions for the future. Their discussion highlighted the vital role Sahir plays in supporting individuals living with HIV and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights – such as our practical and emotional support services, and the growing need for mental health support within the community.
She also took the time to sit down with LGBTQ+ People Seeking Asylum and Refugee Lead, Shereen Crowley, to discuss issues directly relevant to her ministerial portfolio. This conversation provided valuable insight into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals navigating the asylum system and the crucial support services Sahir offers.
Dame Angela engaged with staff and volunteers, gaining deeper insights into the organisation’s pivotal work in HIV prevention, testing, and support services. She expressed her admiration for Sahir’s dedication, stating, “I had a great time visiting Sahir and learning about all the brilliant work they do during National HIV Testing Week.”
Sahir, the oldest LGBTQ+ charity in the Liverpool City Region, continues to be a cornerstone for individuals living with HIV and those seeking a safe and inclusive environment. The organisation’s extensive services range from rapid HIV testing to educational outreach programs, as well as providing the support for service users to live their authentic lives as happily as possible, aiming to reduce stigma and create a more informed community.
The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss current challenges and future initiatives. Dame Angela’s role as Minister of State for Border Security and Asylum brings a unique perspective to issues intersecting public health and immigration. Her engagement with Sahir highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and community organisations to address complex societal issues effectively.
Sahir remains steadfast in its mission to support and empower the LGBTQ+ community and individuals affected by HIV. Dame Angela Eagle’s visit serves as a testament to the impactful work being done and reinforces the significance of continued advocacy, education, and support.
For a glimpse into Dame Angela Eagle’s visit to Sahir, watch the video below:
At Sahir, we are privileged to work with incredible individuals whose journeys inspire and remind us of the importance of support, acceptance, and advocacy. In honor of LGBT+ History Month, we spoke with Arthur Britney Joestar about their experiences and the impact Sahir has had on their life. Here’s their story in their own words.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Arthur Britney Joestar – 33 years old, non-binary. I’m an anime and Nintendo lover. My journey has been shaped by many experiences, including my time as a service user, volunteer, and project partner with Sahir. Over the past eight years, this connection has been instrumental in shaping my path.
How did you first hear about Sahir, and what led you to connect with us?
I was first referred to Sahir when I was seeking asylum. The staff at Birley Court directed me to Sahir, and that connection became a turning point in my life.
In what ways has Sahir supported you, and what difference has that made in your life?
Sahir has had a profound impact on my life, and I will always be grateful for that. They helped me access HIV treatment after my diagnosis, provided crucial support through the challenging asylum process, and connected me with legal aid. Having a dedicated support worker made a world of difference, ensuring I wasn’t navigating this hostile process alone.
Beyond practical support, Sahir played a crucial role in my mental well-being. Their counseling services helped me manage the emotional toll of my experiences, and their safe space allowed me to explore and embrace my gender identity. The acceptance and support I found through Sahir changed my life for the better.
Where are you now on your journey, and what are you most proud of?
I believe that our journey only ends with our last breath. Life is about continuous growth, and while I may not know exactly where I am, I do know that I am happy. I am proud of the person I have become, the strength I have found within myself, and the direction my life is taking.
What are your hopes for the future, and how can we continue to support you on your path?
Right now, I am in a stable and fulfilling place, working hard to make my dreams come true. Sahir has been, and always will be, a part of my life, and I am grateful for the unwavering support I have received.
Why is LGBT+ History Month important to you?
LGBT+ History Month is a time to reflect on our past, acknowledge our struggles, and celebrate our victories. It’s essential to know where we have come from so that we can continue the fight for our rights and ensure that we never lose the progress we have made.
Arthur Britney Joestar’s story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of community. As we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, let’s continue to support and uplift one another, ensuring that every individual has access to the resources and acceptance they deserve.
If you or someone you know could benefit from Sahir’s support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can build a future where everyone is free to live as their authentic selves.
Remembering The Vivienne, Celebrating History, and Facing Uncertainty
The tragic passing of Jame Lee Williams, aka The Vivienne last month, sent shockwaves through our LGBTQ+ community in Liverpool and beyond. Their vibrant personality and groundbreaking success as the first UK winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK brought joy and visibility to many. Whilst the support James gave to Sahir House will always be remembered, it’s crucial to remember the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in our city and beyond.
LGBTQ+ History Month & Sahir House:
This February, we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month, a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of our community. It’s a reminder of the countless individuals who fought for our rights and paved the way for generations to come.
As you are no doubt aware, Sahir House plays a vital role in supporting our LGBTQ+ community in Liverpool. We provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals to access mental health services, find support, and connect with others. Perhaps given the current political climate in the USA, with the rise of transphobic legislation under the Trump administration, many of us have good reason to be worried.
Recent events in the USA are causing deep anxiety within the LGBTQ+ community here in the UK. We are witnessing a dangerous erosion of rights and a surge in hate crimes against transgender individuals. This has a profound impact on our collective mental health. Many of us are experiencing heightened fear, anger, and a sense of hopelessness. We may feel powerless to stop the tide of transphobia and worry about the potential impact on our own lives and the lives of our loved ones. For many older members of our community, historical memories of the discrimination and hatred we faced in the past, may come flooding back.
Finding Hope and Resilience:
It’s crucial that we remember our strength and resilience as a community. We have faced adversity before and overcome significant challenges. We must continue to support each other, stand in solidarity with our trans-siblings, and fight for a more just and equitable world.
Onto other matters this month – We’ve got Valentines Day! Love it or hate it, I thought as a therapist it would be good to explain what happens in our bodies when we fall in love, and why we can seem to lose the plot!
Attraction, the initial spark that draws us to someone, is largely driven by our primal instincts. Irrespective of sexuality or gender, our brains are constantly scanning the environment for potential partners. This process is largely unconscious, guided by ancient programming.
When we meet someone we find attractive, our brains release a cocktail of chemicals. Pheromones, subtle chemical signals, play a role in this initial attraction, though their influence on humans is still being researched. We also get dopamine surges, creating feelings of pleasure, excitement, and motivation. This is the same chemical released when we experience other rewarding activities, like eating delicious food or achieving a goal. It’s what makes us feel good when we’re around the person we’re attracted to, driving us to seek their company.
There are other chemicals at play too which increase our heart rate, trigger sweating, and create that “butterflies in the stomach” feeling. This is also why we get that heightened sense of alertness and focus we experience when we’re with someone we find attractive. This combination of dopamine and norepinephrine creates a state of intense focus and excitement, which can be incredibly exhilarating.
As attraction deepens and moves towards what we call “romantic love,” other chemicals come into play. This is what contributes to that “can’t eat, can’t sleep” feeling often associated with new love.
But perhaps the most crucial hormone in the bonding process is oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone”. Oxytocin is released during physical contact, such as hugging, kissing, and intimacy. It promotes feelings of trust, attachment, and closeness, strengthening the bond between partners. This is why physical touch is so important in romantic relationships; it reinforces those feelings of connection and intimacy.
All well and good so far you may think. However, this intoxicating cocktail of chemicals can also have some less desirable side effects.
When we’re in the throes of new love, our brains can become a bit foggy. The part of the brain responsible for rational thought and judgment, can be temporarily suppressed. This explains why people in love can sometimes make impulsive decisions or overlook red flags. We become so focused on the positive aspects of the relationship that we may struggle to see things objectively.
So if you are familiar with the type of person who falls in love every other week, and tends to take leave of their sense when they do, then this should go some way to explain things.
We can get quite hooked on those intense feelings we get in those first few months of a relationship – hence the idea that we can love being in love!
If there is a particular topic you’d like me to write about then please get in touch. Feel free to send me an email with SAHIR HOUSE in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com
If you would like to know more about the treatments I offer then please check out my website https://www.martinfurber.com
During HIV Testing Week, 10th to 16th February 2025, Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, visited a pop-up session at Kirkby Christian Fellowship Church supported by Sahir to see how quick and easy HIV testing is.
Cllr Christine Bannon said: “It’s really important to highlight the importance of regular testing which helps to reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV and those diagnosed late. The test is free, confidential, quick and easy so I would encourage people to protect themselves and others by getting tested.”
Most new infections come from unprotected sex with someone who doesn’t know they have HIV as people can live with HIV for a long time without any symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your HIV status.
You can also do a test in the comfort of your own home through a self-test kit or you can contact Sahir or book an appointment with Axess.
Cllr Bannon discovered how easy the test is with support from Sahir
If you test positive, finding out means you can start treatment, stay healthy and avoid passing the virus on to anyone else.
Most people will get a negative result but whatever happens, it’s important to know that anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.
Ant Hopkinson, CEO of Sahir, said: “It’s fantastic to have Councillor Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, take part in this important demonstration of how quick and easy HIV self-testing can be. By leading by example, she’s helping to break down stigma, raise awareness, and encourage more people to take control of their sexual health. At Sahir, we know that normalising testing is key to ending new transmissions, and today is a great step forward in that mission.”
Anyone diagnosed with HIV in the UK can access free treatment and support.
Liverpool City Region Charity, Sahir, provides free support to any Knowsley residents affected by HIV. You can speak in confidence with one of the HIV support workers by phoning 0151 673 1972 or emailing info@sahir.org.uk. Information about the range of support and advice available can be found on at LGBTQ+ and HIV Charity in Liverpool City Region – Sahir
Axess is the free sexual health service for Knowsley. They can help with any sexual health concerns and provide virtual and face to face support. The service also delivers a clinic to provide Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is a form of medicine that prevents HIV and is provided to eligible residents who wish to accept the offer. You can find out more at https://www.axess.clinic/.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to where you are today?
My name is Scarlett Rose, I am a Trans Woman based in Liverpool with my Husband. I am an artist, writer, poet, public speaker and Trans and Queer Activist. My journey as a Trans woman has been a short one, in terms of when I started my transition, but realistically my exploration of oneself and my path to finding my truth has been a lifelong set of discoveries. I have always been a creative and passionate soul, always bouncing between creative projects, and I always struggled to find my tribe. Even living as (to the outside world) a gay man, friendship groups were always something that seemed so fleeting. Now that I am an out and proud Trans woman, and living in Liverpool, I have been able to find connections with a beautiful community and use my voice to help the community that has helped me so much.
How did you first hear about Sahir, and what led you to connect with us?
I remember communicating with other Trans people, in a few Facebook groups, ones focused in Liverpool. Sahir house was one of the services that were brought to my attention, and upon my discovery of my Transness I was very eager to get my journey started and contacted Sahir without hesitation. I vaguely recall emailing and then being called by Kath while I was nervously browsing the NYX makeup counter in boots. I had a phone call with Kat as well and they were both so kind and sweet, and I felt a little overwhelmed by their kindness as kindness is something that I have not received a lot of in my life. They both made me feel so safe, and seen, even from those first phone calls. We talked about my self-discovery and what Sahir could offer me in terms of support, and this is where my relationship with Sahir began to bloom.
In what ways has Sahir supported you, and what difference has that made in your life?
Sahir have been there from the very beginning of my transition, even just before I started hormones. I went to my first couple of Gender Proud meetings presenting as male, and I was so nervous. I can still remember the nausea, and the uncontrollable shaking. This was where I met Kat for the first time, and I can honestly say that she has been one of the key people in helping me through out my transition. She may claim to have not done much but I don’t quite think she knows how much joy, self-love, and confidence she has instilled in me from her kindness and her support. She has always been there to talk to me, give me advice, and she is one of the kindest and most authentic human beings I have ever met. She has seen me at my lowest and my highest and never once has she turned away from me. Sahir house is full of wonderful people, and it’s people like Kat, Kath, John and Jared (these are the lovelies I have interacted with most), that I can confidently say I wouldn’t be the woman I am today. I am tearing up typing this, because I think of all the times Sahir house have supported me, encouraged me, and urged me to thrive. They even offered me counselling when I felt I had no one to turn to. Counselling which to be completely honest. Had a hand in saving my life when I was at my lowest.
Not only have they supported me as a Trans person, but they have also supported me as a creative and an advocate. Gracing me with opportunities to speak my truth and perform my poetry at some of their events. Every opportunity they offer me like that, truly is an honour. I will be forever grateful to Sahir House and intend/hope that Sahir and the wonderful people who work there, will be a constant part of my life and my journey.
Scarlett reading her poetry at World AIDS Day on the Wirral
Where are you now on your journey, and what are you most proud of?
I am only just over a year and half into my transition, and while it still feels like I am very much at the beginning of my journey, a lot has happened/changed. Aside from the physical changes that have been so wonderfully affirming for me, as well as finally allowing myself to feel at home and connected in my body, the mental changes have probably been the most significant.
I think more clearly, I speak more confidently and carry myself in a way that states to the world, I belong. It’s through this constant change of self-awareness and growing confidence that I have been able to build myself up as an activist and advocate within my community. Pre Transition Scarlett would not have been able to do what I am doing now, and that is cultivating a loving community for myself, and being able to know my own voice, and use that voice for positive change. I am speaking more at events, giving speeches, reciting poetry and now I am doing something that allows me to effect positive change for a community so full of love, that I will never be in short supply of spiritual fulfilment, having a purpose as a human being and transperson, and feeling like I belong. What I am building, and what I will be able to do for my community. That is what I am most proud of.
What are your hopes for the future, and how can we continue to support you on your path?
What my hopes are for the future, are basically a super-sized version of what I am beginning to do now. Advocacy for my community alongside my creativity, is what I want to do with my life. I am just starting to do that now in a real way, and I am hoping that will continue on an upward trajectory.
In terms of what Sahir can do to support me on my journey, is exactly what they are doing now and have been doing for many many years for our community. They have been such a lifeline for me, not just as a Trans person but also as a human being. I can say with absolute confidence and speaking from personal experience, that what they do is lifesaving.
Why is LGBTQ+ History Month important to you?
LGBTQ+ History month is so important to me, as it raises awareness for our community and through exploring our history we can remember and respect the people who fought for us, and to show people that we have always been here. We are a natural and beautiful part of humanity and that is something to be celebrated. By learning about our history, we are reminded that we have fought and won before, and in today’s current political climate, even in spite of the level of volatility and vitriolic hate we are subjected too, we can fight, and we can overcome. Our history reminds us of our strength as a community and how we can and should come together to lift each other up and help each other thrive. Our history is important because it also shows us that what rights we do have right now, were hard fought for by our community, and why we as a collective need to stand up and fight even harder. Those who came before us did it, often at great cost to themselves, and that is one of the many reasons why we should do the same today.
Scarlett speaking at Transgender Day of Remembrance 2025
Sahir, the Liverpool City Region’s largest and oldest continually operating LGBTQ+ charity, is excited to announce an opportunity for dedicated individuals to join its Board of Trustees. As Sahir celebrates its 40th anniversary, the organisation is looking to expand its board to reflect the diverse communities it serves and to harness unique skill sets that will drive its ambitious future plans.
About Sahir
Since 1985, Sahir has been at the forefront of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and those living with or affected by HIV across Merseyside. The charity offers a comprehensive range of services, including counselling, support groups, sexual health resources, and specialised assistance for LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers. Beyond direct support, Sahir actively challenges prejudice, fights inequality, and campaigns for a fairer society.
Trustee Role
Trustees play a crucial role in guiding Sahir’s strategic direction, ensuring the charity operates sustainably, ethically, and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Key responsibilities include:
Contributing to the development and implementation of Sahir’s vision, values, mission, and strategy.
Monitoring organisational performance against established targets.
Safeguarding Sahir’s reputation and values.
Ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and organisational requirements.
Reviewing and managing risks, ensuring effective mitigation strategies are in place.
Board meetings are typically held early evening on weekdays, commonly via Zoom, with occasional in-person sessions. Trustees are also encouraged to engage in activities beyond board meetings, such as leading discussions, advising on new initiatives, and representing Sahir at public events like Pride, the World AIDS Day Vigil, and fundraising initiatives.
Opportunities for Chair of Trustees and Treasurer
In addition to general trustee positions, Sahir is actively seeking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees and a Treasurer.
Chair of Trustees: The Chair will lead the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction. Key responsibilities include providing leadership to the Board, facilitating open and constructive discussions, and representing Sahir at key events.
Treasurer: The Treasurer will oversee the financial affairs of Sahir, ensuring financial viability and compliance with relevant legislation. Responsibilities include monitoring the financial health of the organisation, ensuring proper financial records are kept, and providing guidance on financial matters to the Board.
Join Us
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating a fairer, healthier future for our communities. If you are passionate about equality and have the skills and dedication to contribute to Sahir’s mission, we encourage you to apply.
LGBTQ+ History Month – a dedicated time to reflect, remember, and celebrate the real lives of LGBTQ+ people past and present.
It’s about honouring the struggles and successes of our global community in the fight for acceptance, equality, and the right to be ourselves.
Here in Liverpool and the Liverpool City Region, we’re surrounded by incredible stories of resilience, courage, and pride. At Sahir, we’re proud to stand with our community – recognising those who’ve fought for change, those still fighting, and those simply trying to live their truth in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.
Click on the following images to read their stories:
