Headspace Port Macquarie’s ‘The Hangout’ creates safe space for LGBTQIA+ high school students

DELIVERED by headspace Port Macquarie, The Hangout is a queer social group for high school students aged 12 to 17, along with their friends and allies.

The Hangout meets on the first Tuesday of every month, providing a safe and welcoming space where young people can connect, feel accepted and be themselves.

The Hangout Co-facilitator Jenny Dunn said, “Connection plays an important role in wellbeing during adolescence.”

“Opportunities to form friendships, share experiences and feel part of a community can strengthen confidence, and support healthy identity development.

“This is especially valuable for LGBTQIA+ young people, who can face additional challenges or a sense of not fitting in.”

headspace Community Engagement Worker Sandy Guthrie added, “LGBTQIA youth are a priority for headspace.”

“They are at increased risk of harm due to bullying and discrimination.

“So, when young people feel seen and accepted, you can see their confidence grow.

“Belonging isn’t optional for young people – it’s essential.

“Groups like The Hangout show them they are not alone, and that who they are is something to be celebrated.”

Each session offers young people the opportunity to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, build confidence and develop a sense of belonging.

For many attendees, The Hangout is the first place where they feel fully accepted and supported for who they are.

The group builds on more than 11-years of local support offered by headspace Port Macquarie to LGBTQIA+ young people aged 12 to 25 through social inclusion groups and events.

Around 25 to 30 per cent of young people who access headspace Port Macquarie identify as LGBTQIA+.
The service works to ensure these young people and their families are met with understanding, respect and affirmation.

Staff involved in the program are trained in inclusion, diversity and youth-safe practice, and the service holds a Rainbow Tick of approval.
The team also promotes simple but meaningful actions, such as asking young people what their pronouns are or wearing a rainbow badge, as visible signs of support.

Research shows that safe social spaces help young people build self-esteem, strengthen social skills, reduce isolation and improve overall mental health.
For LGBTQIA+ youth, who may face stigma or discrimination, these benefits can be especially significant.

Headspace Port Macquarie continues to welcome local young people interested in joining The Hangout and encourages families to seek further information online – headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/port-macquarie/lgbtiq-social-groups/

By Sis HIGGINS