National Switchboard to take control of LGBTQ+ helpline support in Brighton & Hove

Brighton & Hove LGBT+ Switchboard has announced a new partnership with Switchboard – the National LGBTQ+ Support Line. From October 2025, National Switchboard will assume responsibility for delivering helpline support across Brighton & Hove, thereby expanding access to a trusted, year-round service for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.

Although Brighton & Hove’s local helpline telephone number and email address will be transferred to the national service, this transition, Brighton & Hove LGBT+ Switchboard says, will happen "seamlessly, with no disruption for those reaching out for support". Local volunteers will remain actively involved, continuing to provide peer-led assistance.

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Executive of Brighton & Hove LGBT+ Switchboard, commented: “Having operated our helpline for over 50 years, we’ve grown to offer a broad range of dedicated services that support the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ people in Brighton & Hove and across Sussex. With the National Switchboard now delivering helpline support in the region, we’re excited to refocus our efforts on the other vital services we provide.”

Brighton & Hove LGBT+ Switchboard will continue to deliver a variety of essential in-person local services, including the BOLD project (supporting those experiencing bereavement, older LGBTQ+ individuals, people living with dementia, and their carers), Domestic Abuse services, and Social Prescribing for Trans, Non-binary, and Intersex people, as well as LGBTQ+ Migrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers. These services complement their Health Inclusion programme and training provision.

Stephanie Fuller, Chief Executive of the National LGBTQIA+ Support Line, added: “This strategic partnership between ourselves and Brighton & Hove Switchboard stands as a shining example of community collaboration that will enhance support and services for our community.

"By prioritising a community-first approach, we can achieve better outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals who may need support from our national helpline or benefit from the excellent in-person services provided by Brighton & Hove Switchboard.”

In 2024 alone, the National Switchboard’s team of over 300 volunteers handled more than 14,000 conversations, supporting LGBTQ+ people and their allies with everything from everyday queries to life-changing decisions.

Their support is entirely free and accessible wherever you feel most comfortable - whether by phone (0800 0119 100), live chat (switchboard.lgbt), or email (hello@switchboard.lgbt) - from 10am - 10pm, every day of the year.