METRO Charity: Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

Introduction:

METRO Charity is an equality and diversity charity providing health, community and youth services in Woolwich, a borough just half an hour from Greenwich. METRO promotes health and wellbeing to anyone experiencing issues relating to sexuality, gender, equality, diversity and identity. I started volunteering in October. Before youth group, I organize the room, bring in snacks, get the television and laptop ready (in case there are presentations) and prepare any other materials for the day.

What community need did I learn about?:

In 1984, the Greenwich Lesbian and Gay Centre was founded at a time in London when homophobia against the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, other sexual identities) community was particularly high. This centre was created to challenge this discrimination and to promote equality for LGBTQ+ people in society and the workplace. Its building was a safe space to meet to play pool and board games, and it offered a telephone service for general advice and information. The centre also organized events and participated in Pride activities every June. This centre eventually transformed into the METRO charity.

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