Gay and Lesbian service under threat

Gay and Lesbian service under threat

By Angela Luvera

PERTH — The Gay and Lesbian Community Service of WA, formerly known as Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service, is threatened by a lack of funding. A special general meeting will be held on December 1 to decide whether to remain open.

The service originated from the Campaign Against Moral Persecution (CAMP) and has been running for 25 years. It covers talking with people who are just coming out, relationship difficulties, domestic violence and workplace discrimination, and acts as a general information source.

GLCS has relied upon funding from the community and the Lotteries Commission, but this is decreasing as funding is directed into other areas, such as the Pride festival.

"GLCS evidently has not received the state government support it deserves, and after 25 years a lifeline for many people is about to break", said Corrine Glenn, the director of GLCS.

The only government funding GLCS has received was part of a $1025 grant from the federal Office of Youth Affairs, which was shared with the Freedom Centre and the WA AIDS Council.

Greens MLA Giz Watson has raised the issue in parliament. "GLCS provides many vital services, none more important than the impact they've had in reducing youth suicide", said Watson.

All financial members can attend the meeting on December 1 at City West Lotteries House at 7.30pm.

From GLW issue 386