Imposter syndrome – What is it – How does it affect someone?

My aim is to throw some light on various aspects of mental health and well-being, including covering topics which you bring to my attention. I also like to shed light on various phrases or buzzwords we all hear from time to time. ‘Imposter Syndrome’ is another of those phrases we may hear in the workplace, or in day-to-day conversation.

We can all have some self-doubts from time to time, it is only natural when encountering a new situation. However, when we begin to constantly doubt ourselves in a professional capacity, perhaps by constantly questioning our own ability. Feeling like a fraud in the workplace by comparing ourselves unfavourably to others, then it can self-perpetuate and become a very real problem for some people. It may lead to feelings of going to get ‘caught out’, when in fact, there is nothing to be caught out for, it is merely our own incorrect feelings of inadequacy.

You may be surprised to learn that even some of the most prominent leaders in industry and commerce doubt themselves from time to time and feel undeserved of their success. People at the top of their game can actually be plagued with self-doubt.

People who grew up in families where achievement was highly valued and where there was a lot of pressure to succeed may be more likely to experience imposter syndrome. This is because they may have learned to internalise the belief that they are never good enough, no matter how much they achieve.

The evidence suggests that those of us who identify under the rainbow flag are more likely to experience imposter syndrome than those who don’t. This is because we are often subject to stereotypes, and statistically are more likely to struggle with our mental health.

As we know from recent media coverage, our trans-siblings are also subjected to treatment where their gender identity may be doubted or even ridiculed. Not only is this downright cruel, it will also compound any self-doubt they may be experiencing and fuel imposter syndrome.

So, what can you do about it? I would suggest you start by listening to other people rather than yourself. All too often, when we are in a negative frame of mind, which ultimately is a cause of imposter syndrome, we get consumed by our own negativity. Listen with an open mind and hear what you are being told about your achievements, about the high regard your colleagues hold you in.

This is where we can all help to support each other, no matter how we identify under the rainbow flag. We all have far more common ground with each other than differences. Building somebody up with a kind word or two can make all the difference to them, and to us.

Imposter syndrome is when we doubt our own capability, despite evidence to the contrary, so we need to look for that evidence and absorb it. If you find that particularly difficult, then it may be helpful to write down a list of positive past achievements to put them front of mind. Have a good, long think to yourself of every professional achievement you have made so far, whether it be a promotion you had 10 years ago, when you were employee of the month last year, when you had a favourable appraisal last month. Whatever achievements they were, no matter how small, do not underestimate them; do not cheat yourself by telling yourself you did not deserve them.

Another common factor with people affected by imposter syndrome is a constant strive for perfectionism – it doesn’t exist, the sooner a person accepts that fact, the sooner they can lower their stress levels, think clearly and move on with their life. Perfectionists may also be afraid of making mistakes, which can lead them to avoid challenging tasks or opportunities.

Something else you may find helpful, is to stop believing everything you see on social media. It is very easy to feel inadequate when we compare ourselves to others. Remember, what we see on social media is usually a ‘snapshot’ of other people’s perfect moments, achievements, and successes, don’t get caught out by it!

If you would like me to cover any particular aspect of mental health & well-being then please drop me a line with Sahir House in the subject line to solutions@martinfurber.com

You can find me online at

https://www.martinfurber.com

https://www.facebook.com/MartinFurberHypnotherapy/

Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various disciplines and an instructor member of Mental Health First Aid England.

Please note: If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and feel you may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, The Samaritans on 116 123 or attend A&E.

 

 

This month I thought I would look at a topic which affects many people, but is much misunderstood, Neurodivergence.

Neurodivergence refers to the natural variations in how our brains function and process information. It encompasses a range of neurological conditions, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. People who identify as neurodivergent often experience the world in different ways, possessing distinct strengths and challenges that can enrich the fabric of our community.

Many people make the mistake of thinking that ADHD and autism are mental health conditions, they are not.

Although, of course, given the issues many of us across the entire LGBTQIA community go through in terms of dealing with our own self-acceptance, coming out etc. The intersection of neurodivergence and LGBTQIA identity brings unique challenges and perspectives that deserve understanding and support.

This is where we can all play our part in recognising and embracing the diversity within our own community.

Neurodivergent individuals within our community are influenced not only by their neurodivergence but also by their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This can magnify the barriers they encounter and impact their overall well-being, which can in turn lead to issues that affect a person’s mental health and well-being.

Our very own CEO here at Sahir House, Ant Hopkinson, recently learned he is living with autism, and has my complete respect for sharing this openly, and for helping to launch a new LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent Peer Support Group for Merseyside.

If we all understand a little bit more about these conditions, then we can all help and support each other a little more and play our part in helping to stop the stigma about such things.

There is a significant stigma surrounding ADHD, probably because it is one of those terms that is frequently bandied around or used as a personal insult. Many people with the disorder face discrimination and misunderstanding. It is important to recognise that ADHD is a real and treatable condition, and that individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilled and successful lives with the right support.

Symptoms of adult ADHD can include difficulty organising and completing tasks, forgetfulness, impulsivity, restlessness, and problems with time management (time-blindness). These symptoms can lead to difficulties at work and in relationships, which further leads to self-esteem issues.

In general, men with ADHD are more likely to have symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity, while women with ADHD are more likely to have symptoms of inattention. This means that men with ADHD may be more likely to fidget, interrupt others, and act impulsively, while women with ADHD may be more likely to be easily distracted, forgetful, and disorganised.

These days ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, but many people, particularly the more senior generation, are not diagnosed until much later. This might be because the disorder was not recognised or properly diagnosed. Those with milder symptoms can now be recognised and helped, whereas in the past they may have been overlooked.

ADHD can be effectively managed by a number of methods such as therapy and medication, if necessary. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the many talking therapies that can help individuals learn coping strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning in everyday life. Other types of therapy, such as hypnotherapy and support groups are also beneficial.

Autism is a lifelong condition that varies in severity and presents differently in each individual, which is why it is referred to as a spectrum. It is a natural variation of human neurology, that affects the way individuals perceive the world and interact with others. It is characterised by a range of challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviours, and restricted interests.

Autism affects people across all levels of cognitive ability. Each person with autism has their own unique set of characteristics, and it is crucial to approach them with respect, understanding, and support tailored to their specific needs.

By embracing neurodivergence, and being mutually supportive, we can create an environment where everyone feels accepted and valued. Let us celebrate the richness that neurodivergent LGBTQIA individuals bring to our community, recognising that their unique neurological experiences contribute to the diversity that makes us stronger together.

That’s it for this month.

Please remember you can always contact me if you would like me to cover a particular topic about mental health & well-being solutions@martinfurber.com

Or check out my website https://www.martinfurber.com

If you would like to attend the Sahir House LGBTQ+ Neurodivergent Peer Support Group, please email katrina.taylor@sahir.org.uk

 

We are delighted to welcome Rachel Gaskell, the LGBT+ Lead Social Prescribing Link Worker for the Central Liverpool Primary Care Network to our Thursday Social Space drop in this Thursday 6^th July from 1pm – 4pm.

Rachel will be attending our drop in every 1^st Thursday of the month. The Thursday Social Space is open to all registered service users.  If you are not currently registered for services and would like to attend the Thursday Social Space, please contact us for further information.

Rachel’s role as Social Prescriber, is to link people into community support, for example, this could be a via a service/group/activity etc. With Rachel’s support, you will work on the root cause of what may be impacting on your wellbeing.

The service covers up to six sessions – first session is up to one hour, the rest are 30 mins. In this time, a plan will be established which may include completing referrals, check-ins, general wellbeing support and coaching.

Reasons for a referral to Social Prescribing (general):

• Being active
• Social activities
• Employment
• Education
• Family/Carers Support
• Drugs/alcohol advice
• Mental wellbeing
• Financial support
• Domestic abuse
• Volunteering
• Housing

And anything else that may be impacting someone’s wellbeing.

Extending to an LGBT+ specific Social Prescribing clinic reasons may be:

• Person would benefit from support with someone in the LGBT+ community
• The referrer feels unable to support patient in LGBT+ affirmative way (whether this be due to knowledge, experience, cultural or religious etc dilemmas)
• Person would benefit from in-person link to LGBT+ services
• Person questioning gender/sexual orientation – unsure on next steps
• Person having problems with accessing appropriate healthcare for transitioning
• Person looking to socially transition – considering name change etc
• Person experiencing/experienced hate crime/trauma/domestic abuse relating to being LGBT+
• Family member of LGBT+ person looking for support
• Intersectionality support e.g. Asylum seeker who is questioning identity/sexual orientation

 

If you’re registered with the following practices Rachel can work with you (if not, she can signpost you to the relevant person):

• Abercromby Family Practice
• Brownlow Group Practice
• Brownlow Health at Kensington
• Brownlow Health at Marybone
• Brownlow Health at Princes Park
• Dingle Park Practice
• The Elms Medical Centre
• St James Health Centre
• Vauxhall Primary Health Care

 

Please speak to a member of Sahir House staff if you wish to be referred to Rachel or feel free to pop into the drop in Thursday to ask Rachel any questions.

Sahir House, Liverpool’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ charity has joined forces with local community organisation, Merseyside Autistic Adults, to launch an exciting new peer support group for neurodivergent LGBTQ+ adults.

The group will primarily focus on people living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), though all neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people will be encouraged to join. Attendees are not required to have any form of formal diagnosis.

Kat Taylor, Sahir House’s LGBTQ+ Engagement Worker commented: 

“We’re very excited about this new collaboration with Merseyside Autistic Adults. Our initial effort will be focussed on creating a safe, accessible and regular social space for autistic and neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people.” 

The idea for the group came about after a chance conversation between local community activist, Graeme Lavery and Sahir House’s CEO, Ant Hopkinson.  Both men proudly live with autism.

Graeme Lavery commented: 

“ Despite having years of additional support with learning difficulties, it wasn’t until I left university that a mental health nurse, highlighted that I was in fact exhibiting typical autistic traits and that a formal diagnosis would greatly improve my understanding of my self but to make better adjustments for my future health and wellbeing”.

“I was surprised there wasn’t any specific lgbtq+ support for autistic adults in Merseyside considering that diagnosed Individuals’ are 6-7 times more likely to identify as lgbtq+ and or have gender identity issues. Sahir House has been my rock following a HIV diagnosis ten years ago, however as services have changed, I saw an opportunity to out reach to a new area of lgbtq+ specifically the adults living with autism. Due to a lack of funding in Merseyside for such services, am glad that volunteer led Merseyside Autistic Adults, have provided a warm and welcoming space for me to learn more and meet likeminded folk; to bring a natural collaboration which am sure will open up the doors to people getting access to much needed support”.

Autism is a complex, lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation.

Autistic people may find some aspects of communication and social interactions challenging. They may have difficulty relating to people and understanding their emotions. Autistic adults may also have inflexible thought patterns and behaviour and may carry out repetitive actions.

Evidence suggests that neurodivergent individuals, particularly those diagnosed with ASD, are significantly more likely to identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or queer than those who are neurotypical.

Neurodivergent people are also more likely than the general population to be gender non-conforming.

Ant Hopkinson, Sahir House’s CEO, commented: 

“Receiving my autism diagnosis early this year has changed my life. At the age of 39, I finally feel like I understand myself.

The usual popular stereotypes about autism made it difficult for me to realise that I could be autistic. I’m told that it’s not uncommon for high-functioning adults to receive a diagnosis later in life as we become well-practised at masking our differences. But, in all honesty, I do wish I’d found out about my autism much sooner. 

Since receiving my diagnosis, I’ve been shocked by how little support is available for adults living with ASD and in particular those from within our LGBTQ+ community. Fortunately, as CEO of Sahir House, I find myself in a position where I can help make a difference – albeit a small one – in this regard.

The stark reality is that funding for such initiatives is scarce and we can only do so much. I’d encourage anyone wanting to support our work to reach out to me directly for a conversation”

Sahir House’s LGBTQ+ Neurodivergent Group with Merseyside Autistic Adults will be held on the first Friday of every month commencing Friday 2nd June.

Sessions will be held within the Charity’s HQ within the LCVS Building in central Liverpool.

For more information and to get involved please email info@sahir.org.uk 

Five danger signs someone may be struggling with their mental health.

We can all have a bad day, a bad week or a couple of bad weeks. It is a part of life, and when everything is in balance, the bad times can help us appreciate the good ones. When we manage to overcome some of the challenges that life throws at us, it can actually give us a good feeling and motivate us to do more.

There’s often no better feeling than having completed something we were dreading doing, something that we had been putting off, or were anxious about.

However, when things get on top of us, which can creep up on us gradually, we may suddenly find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, unable to distinguish the good from the bad. In some cases, a person can start to feel helpless and perhaps begin to see no hope in the future, everything begins to look bleak. Things which used to excite or enthuse them, no longer interest them.

They might lose interest in sex, start to avoid going out, even ignoring invitations to join their friends or attend events.

It is very easy to then slide further down as they retreat into themselves. They may start to make excuses for not doing things they normally do. They can even reach the point of just ignoring text messages and emails from friends who are concerned about them, as things begin to overwhelm them even more.

Worse still they may even start to self-medicate with excess use of alcohol or other stuff! Sure, it may provide some short-term relief, but in the long term, it will just make the situation worse, and cloud their judgement and ability to seek help even more.

Before they know it, they are in some kind of crisis.

There are a few warning signs we can look for in others which may indicate they are struggling with their mental health. Some of them may of course also be indicators of other health issues. If you think someone who is close to you may be struggling with their mental health the first port of call should always be their GP.

Given the way that many people who identify under the rainbow flag were historically treated, there is still a big reluctance to seek help in this way amongst many members of our community. Thankfully things are changing, and we have the right to be treated equally, without judgement. The facts speak for themselves, those of us who identify under the rainbow flag are statistically far more likely to be affected by mental health issues, than those who don’t identify this way. Thankfully, the health services are beginning to realise this and offering services and treatments which suit our needs.

Here’s a simple summary of some of the main things to be aware of that someone you know, or love, might just be struggling with their mental health:

– Changes in mood or behaviour: If someone you know has been acting out of character, seems more withdrawn or irritable than usual, or is experiencing extreme mood swings, it could be a sign that they are struggling with their mental health.

– Withdrawing from social activities: If someone who used to be very social is suddenly avoiding gatherings, events or social activities, it could be a sign that they are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

– Changes in appetite or sleep patterns: If someone is experiencing significant changes in their appetite or sleep patterns, such as sleeping more or less than usual, or eating more or less than usual, it could be a sign that they are struggling with their mental health.

– Difficulty functioning or completing tasks: If someone is having difficulty with daily tasks or seems to be struggling to complete work assignments, it could be a sign that they are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.

– Substance abuse: If someone is using drugs or alcohol to cope with their problems, it could be a sign that they are struggling with their mental health. This could include using drugs or alcohol to numb emotional pain or to help them sleep.

One of the best things you can do if you are concerned about someone, is ask them! It is always worth trying to gently open up a conversation to see if you can do anything to help. Take the time to listen and let them know you care and that you will not judge them. All too often when people are struggling, they are reluctant or even embarrassed to talk. There is still so much stigma attached to talking about mental health issues and sadly, all too often things are left too late. That’s why I would really encourage you to talk with someone you care about if you are concerned.

Next time I am going to take a look at addiction, how it happens and what help is out there.

If you would like me to cover any other subjects to do with mental health and well-being please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Please 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 private treatment I offer, then please check out my

website https://www.martinfurber.com

Or find me on social media LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-furber/

Facebook: Martin Furber Therapist

 

We are delighted to welcome the Childwall and Wavertree Primary Care Network to our next social space drop in, here at Sahir House on Thursday 13th April 2023, between 12 – 4pm.  This session is open to all registered  Sahir House service users across the Liverpool City Region.

Care Co-ordinator Julie Clark will be joined by colleagues, Care Co-ordinator, Ellen Sloan and Health and Wellbeing Coach, Nathan French.

The network covers several different GP practices including Valley Medical Centre, Rutherford Medical Centre, Mossley Hill Surgery, Greenbank Road Surgery, Greenbank Drive Surgery, Penny Lane Surgery and Lance Lane Medical Centre.

Julie, Ellen and Nathan welcome members of the LGBTQ+ to come and have an informal chat in regards to their experiences in accessing services and how those services are meeting need, also welcome suggestions around developing clinics for LGBTQ+ patients.  The aim is to improve services, access and inclusivity.

The social space is open 10 – 4pm every Thursday here at Sahir House, 4th Floor, LCVS Building, 151 Dale Street.  Each month we welcome in different partner organisations so keep an eye out for the latest news. We’ll always have the kettle on, a warm cozy room, board games and an IT suite for those who would like to use the computer.  Hopefully see you soon!

 

 

The next Coffee & Cake afternoon will take place on Tuesday 4th April 2023 , 1pm – 3pm in our cozy Sunny Room.

Come and join us for a slice of cake! Including some delicious homemade Rocky Road!

This session is open to people living with HIV (PLWHIV) based within the Liverpool City Region.  It’s an opportunity for our community to come together in a safe and homely space.

If you wish to attend please email Angela, angela.english@sahr.uk.com or call 0151 673 1972.

Please note – This is limited to 15 people so if you wish to attend please book a place.

If you’d like to support us to run social spaces such as this please head over to our donate page or follow us and share on our social media @sahirhouse

LGBT+ Military Charity, Fighting with Pride, have kindly agreed ten tickets for a theatre night out in Sale at Waterside Theatre for the Judy and Lisa Musical Show.  They have ten tickets on a first come first serve basis, there may also be some pizza before the show as well!

This offer is for LGBT+ veterans based in the North West.

Anyone who is interested please contact  kenny.bryce@fightingwithpride.org.uk.

The show is on 5^th April at 7.30pm Waterside Theatre Manchester.

‘Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli are back together again thanks to a sensational musical experience, Judy and Liza.  This dazzling production, now in its tenth year, tells the turbulent tale of Hollywood’s biggest stars against the backdrop of their infamous 1964 London Palladium concert. West End stars Emma Dears and Helen Sheals belt out their most famous hits with uncanny resemblance, bursting with elusive star quality. Featuring live performances of Cabaret, Maybe This Time, The Trolley Song and The Man That Got Away to name but a few.  The audience are taken on an emotional rollercoaster journey as we discover the uncanny parallels between some of Judy and Liza’s most iconic songs and their own personal lives.  Spend an evening with the mother and daughter who really did put the ‘show’ into showbiz.’

 

 

 

 

Anger management and flying off the handle.

Let me make one thing plain from the outset. I can never condone violent outbursts of any kind. However, some people are, or can become, prone to them. As with most things, the more we understand about it, the more able we are to do something or seek help, which is the whole purpose of my column for Sahir House.

So, let me ask you a question. Have you ever been in a restaurant, when everyone is enjoying themselves, eating, chatting and laughing, and all of a sudden, the waiter drops a tray full of dishes or glasses? If you have, you will probably have noticed that everyone immediately goes quiet. After about a minute or so, once everyone realises it was nothing to worry about, the chatter will recommence, and everything will go back to how it was. There may well be a cheer for the poor embarrassed waiter.

This happens because the fight/flight part of our brain cannot immediately react to the danger. Instead, it takes a back-seat for a moment or two, to allow the intellectual part of our brain to make an assessment, to see if we need to get away from the situation or deal with it in some other way.

The fight or flight part of our brain protects us and looks out for us. When it senses we are in danger it will step in to help, it will get us ready to flee from something. It might make us angry; expressing anger is a primitive form of self-defence to frighten off our enemies. This was great when we were living in caves and had natural predators on our door step; but not so helpful these days.

When we are prone to stress, anxiety, and otherwise under pressure, this part of the brain can react instantly, without giving the intellectual side of our brain a chance to reason things out. In other words, we act first and then think later.

Someone with a tendency to fly off the handle at the least little thing may well be suffering from undue stress and anxiety. It could be that they are afraid of a particular situation or person, it could be simply that they feel out of their depth in an argument or discussion. They may also be on ‘red-alert’ because of other things which have happened in their early life which have never been dealt with. They may be suffering with PTSD as a result of trauma or early life bullying because they were different. Such things can stick around for a long time.

There are in fact many reasons why a person can be suffering in this way. The inevitable result will be that they automatically react before they think things out logically. This leads to unacceptable behaviour and reactions. It can be equally distressing afterwards for the person who has had the outburst. This can lead to feelings of guilt which leads to more stress and anxiety – and guess what? Yes, on it goes…

There can be other triggers too for anger, some of them more so in our community than others. With the recent terrible events leading to the death of one of our trans-siblings we may feel more on edge or more fearful when going into situations that may not otherwise bother us, we may become more vigilant. We may not necessarily have the thoughts at the front of our mind either, but our sub-conscious may make us feel more vulnerable and keep us more on alert, giving us a general feeling of unease and making us snappy. Again, if you are the type that has a short fuse anyway, you may well have found yourself more on edge lately.

It goes without saying that someone with a tendency to violent outbursts should get professional help to deal with that and get help for the underlying causes. However, at the lower end of the scale, if you have found yourself becoming short-tempered and prone to reacting without thinking first, then you may find it helpful if you can get into the habit of taking a deep breath and allowing yourself to just slow down a little before reacting to anything you feel is provoking you.

This could be the first step in the right direction to get your stress levels down. Identifying other things which may cause us to get angry can help us to avoid them, simple steps, but they can be helpful.

More in-depth anger management is a process of learning how to recognise, control, and express anger in a healthy and constructive way. Anger is a natural and normal emotion, but when it becomes intense and frequent, it can lead to problems in personal and professional relationships, as well as physical and mental health issues. Effective anger management techniques can help individuals to cope with their emotions and prevent harmful consequences, it is something I help people with as a therapist.

If you would like me to cover any other subjects to do with mental health and well-being please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Please 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 private treatments I offer then please check out my

website  https://www.martinfurber.com

Or find me on social mediaLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-furber/

Facebook: Martin Furber Therapist

 

We are delighted to announce that Shelter will be attending our ‘Social Space’ sessions once every month to offer our community specialist support and advice on housing and homelessness.

Please see below a list of up and coming dates:

• – Thursday 23^rd March 2023
• – Thursday 20^th April 2023
• – Thursday 18^th May 2023

Shelter is one of the UK’s largest housing and homelessness charities.  Last year over five million people turned to Shelter for advice.

Many of us struggle with problems related to our housing. For example, this could be difficulties with money, relationships or practical issues – Sahir House and Shelter can help with this. If you are homeless or worried about becoming homeless, Shelter will be able to offer specialist advice and support based on your own circumstances.

Our weekly Thursday ‘Social Space’ is open to all members of our LGBTQ+ community as well as people living with HIV across Liverpool City Region.  The sessions run from 10am until 4pm, in the Sunny Room here at Sahir House HQ.  Come and have a warm drink and maybe a game of scrabble!

If you feel that you could benefit was Sahir House services, either support, counselling, accessing our peer groups, please email info@sahir.org.uk for more information.

If you would like to help support our drop-in sessions or other social spaces we deliver like this, please head over to our donate page.

Liverpool’s largest and oldest LGBTQ+ charity Sahir House is working with Liverpool City Council and a range of partners to undertake a health needs assessment with LGBTQ+ communities to better understand their experiences and the health inequalities they face.

Take the Survey

To coincide with LGBTQ+ history month, Sahir House is launching its first dedicated health needs assessment (survey) for local LGBTQ+ people.

National evidence shows that LGBTQ+ people (lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning and ace) face inequalities relating to health and wellbeing throughout their lives – including barriers to accessing healthcare services.

A 2018 Stonewall survey also found that half of LGBTQ+ people had experienced depression in the previous year, and that a quarter of people had witnessed discrimination by healthcare staff.

The survey, which is the first for Liverpool will incorporate information from a range of sources, including national level evidence and data from the 2021 census.

The key findings will be used to design focus groups and explore the key issues identified in more depth.

It will also support Liverpool’s commitment to the UNICEF Child Friendly City Programme and champion the needs of LGBTQ+ children.

All of the information gathered will be used to make recommendations for the Council, partners and stakeholders in order to improve services across the city.

Take the Survey

Hi Everyone.  My name is Jamie Lowe and my pronouns are he/him or they/them (take your pick). Some of you will recognise my name because we mix in the same circles – socially and professionally. Others are reading it for the first time. Whichever the case, I am a newcomer to Sahir House so I’m asking for a minute of your time to introduce myself.

I am the Founder-Director of True Self Wealth and I specialise in helping members of the LGBTQ+ community. I was delighted to meet with Ant Hopkinson (Chief Executive, Sahir House) a short while back on LinkedIn, and we quickly realised that we shared a real passion for community empowerment.

I’ve always wanted to be a financial adviser, and I was already working as one when I came out as trans. My financial qualifications and career experience have really helped me to prepare for, and manage, my transition – but even I was unprepared for the financial cost of becoming the person I was always meant to be.

Transitioning is different for everyone. For some folx, it means name changes, hormones, treatments, surgeries and more. For other folx it’s more about relocation and starting life anew. For others it’s a mixture of these things.

The process of transitioning is very personal and idiosyncratic but there is one common element – it’s really expensive! There are lots of hidden and unanticipated costs – and unfortunately, our healthcare system doesn’t automatically cover most (or any) of the cost.

Transitioning has made me realise how much time and headspace it takes up. And how complicated an undertaking it is to manage financially.

When I think of typical financial advisers I think of an older, cis, white male. If I wasn’t in this line of work I’d imagine that approaching any professional service would be intimidating. I have two children, three mums and a trans dad. My partner and I are both non-binary too. Explaining my family situation means I have to ignore the look on people’s faces sometimes.

Navigating personal finances, tax, estate planning and pensions can be so much more complicated if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community.  We know that there is a confidence gap when it comes to many queer folx and money matters.

Queer people generally have different life experiences and family dynamics than our cis-het counterparts, which means that we also have financial needs that often aren’t addressed in the mainstream money media.

Big banks design their services for a broad customer base, but in doing so, they can fall short of serving the needs of marginalised communities.

Finding a financial adviser who is both culturally and financially competent can help you identify and execute your financial and life goals.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact True Self Wealth Ltd on 07469 712299 or email Jamie.lowe@sjpp.co.uk