The Southern Gay Men's Health Project is
based in Cork City, and covers the Southern Health Board region.
We work within the principles of community development and take
a holistic approach to health promotion. There are three staff
members and a group of Helpline volunteers. We provide a range
of services:
Sexual Health Promotion
Through our Helpline, and our
various activities we are constantly promoting safer sex and
keeping our clients aware of the any rises in individual STIs, so they are
able to make informed decisions with their own sexual health.
Support on HIV/AIDS and STIs
Through our presence in bars, clubs, and public sex environments, we
provide information on STIs,
HIV/AIDS,
and distribute condom packs. We also offer ongoing support to those
living with HIV/AIDS.
Training
We provide workshops, of varying lengths (catered to varying needs)
on many issues, such as dealing with gay/bisexual clients and staff,
and combating homophobia. These are delivered to many different audiences
- staff of schools, colleges and universities, health boards, businesses.
Support
Groups
Within the project there are many support groups: Married/Separated
Men's Group, Alcoholics Anonymous, Reach
(Christian Gay Group). For more details contact our office
or e-mail.
Gay Information Cork (GIC) provides support, information,
and a contact point for many gays, bisexuals and men who have
sex with men in the South of Ireland. This is a very important
service and is often the first step one takes towards looking
at their sexuality. Our helpline is manned by volunteers who are
given extensive and ongoing training. It is a completely confidential
service. Call (021) 4271087 Mon - Friday 9am -5.30pm (closed for
lunch 1pm - 2pm)
Outreach Services
Our outreach workers have many varying services. One of the most
beneficial to those having problems with their sexuality is the
befriending service.
Personal Development Courses
Our Personal
Development Course is an opportunity to explore and better understand
or know oneself. To look at different issues & areas affecting one's
life. It is an invitation to explore the world in which we live
as gay and bisexual men in a confidential and safe environment.
There is no homework or exams. This course is facilitated by members
of our health project team.
One-to-One Counselling
Our counsellor is available (by appointment) to offer support, advice,
and general counselling. We also have a list of other qualified counsellors,
each with their own practice.
Befriending Service
Our team will arrange to meet to chat with you (if you wish). For
many, this is their first point of contact, and indeed, one of the
first times to speak about themselves and their sexuality. This
service is free and strictly confidential. A
clients interview.