By Ashleigh Fielding | posted on September 21, 2017
A NEW safe and non-judgemental support group has been established in Albany for parents, friends and families of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, known as PFLAG, is an international organisation providing support, education and advocacy for LGBTIQ communities.
Albany’s new branch is currently being coordinated by Jule Ruscoe, who has actively been involved with support group Albany Gay and Lesbian (AGAL) for a few years.
PFLAG welcomes people of all ages and stands alongside the local LBGTIQ community to support equality for all, and to promote understanding and support.
The group is comprised of parents, grandparents, siblings and friends of the LGBTIQ community.
“We are very excited to start PFLAG Albany,” Ms Ruscoe said.
“We believe in keeping families together through acceptance and greater knowledge.”
Current PFLAG Albany members will soon have their business cards distributed throughout local high schools, doctors’ surgeries and Anglicare, to let people know how to get in touch with them.
“We are more than happy for people to come and have a chat with us, or go for a coffee with them,” Ms Ruscoe said.
“We want to be a point of contact for people.”
Ms Ruscoe is aiming for the group to commence regular meetings every two months, but welcomes informal meetings any time.
PFLAG Albany will be working closely with AGAL and can be contacted through their website, albanygayandlesbian.com.au.
PFLAG began in America in 1973 and has been operating in Australia for more than 30 years.
