Brighton and Hove LGBT Switchboard was founded in 1975 and has been providing services to the LGBT community in Brighton and beyond ever since. Originally operating as a helpline Switchboard has expanded over the years to include a face-to-face counselling service and to provide diversity, awareness and LGBT affirmative practise training to local organisations.

Our mission is to "listen, support and inform". Whether you have a straightforward question about the scene, local groups or services for LGBT people or a sexual health enquiry we aim to answer your questions directly giving you accurate information or put you in touch with an organisation that has more specific expertise. It may be that you have a personal difficulty and want a listening ear and emotional support and you may need the opportunity to explore your difficulties in more depth. Our helpline is available every day from 5pm and our counselling service is available by appointment with a sliding scale of charges to ensure accessibility regardless of income.

If you have been the victim of an LGBT hate crime our helpline can provide you with immediate support both emotionally and with the practicalities of dealing with what's happened to you. We can help you to decide whether and how to involve the police and can report the incident confidentially on your behalf - even if you wish to remain anonymous.