Freedom is OTR’s LGBTQIA+ youth programme, providing a safe, joyful and supportive space for young people aged 11-25 who are LGBTQIA+ or exploring their gender and sexuality. Freedom is a friendly, welcoming and relaxed space that helps young people be themselves, find friends and get the support they need. Freedom sessions are full of fun ways to express ourselves and learn new things. All of our Freedom sessions and groups are supported by our friendly team of LGBTQ+ youth workers.

What does LGBTQIA+ mean?

LGBTQIA+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Questioning or Queer, Intersex, and Asexual. The ‘+’ includes other diverse gender and/or sexuality identities such as demigender, non-binary, pan-sexual, Two-Spirit, and others. Freedom is open to anyone who identifies as LGBTQIA+, or anyone who is questioning or exploring their gender or sexuality.

How do I get involved?

You can sign up for our Freedom groups here. If you have any questions, you can email us at Freedom@otrbristol.org.uk

Here’s what’s on offer…

Freedom for young people aged 11-14

Our 11-14 group is a relaxed space where young people can be themselves and find friends. We have had games nights, baking evenings and lots of creative activities.

We meet regularly and have extra trips during the school holidays.

If you are 13 or 14 and aren’t sure which group is the best fit for you, please get in touch freedom@otrbristol.org.uk.

Freedom for young people aged 13-18

Freedom’s 13-18 group is a fun and lively group where young people can make friends, find support and express themselves. We run workshops on all sorts of topics chosen by the group, to help them develop new skills and try new things.

We meet regularly during term time and school holidays.

If you are 13 or 14 and aren’t sure which group is the best fit for you, please get in touch freedom@otrbristol.org.uk.

Freedom for young people aged 18-25

The 18-25 group is a friendly, relaxed social space where you can meet other LGBTQIA+ people. Each session has optional activities, including crafts, games and cooking, for example. Sessions happen weekly, but you can attend as often as you’d like.

We also sometimes go to events together – think local theatre shows, exhibitions, and pride – or have external organisations in to run sessions!

If you are 18 and not sure which group is the best fit for you, please get in touch freedom@otrbristol.org.uk.

Parents and Carers Group

Freedom’s Parent and Carer group offers help, support and community to parents and carers of young LGBTQIA+ people. We meet regularly to have a chat about the issues we are facing and we share our advice, knowledge and experience.

The Parent and Carer sessions alternate between online and in-person sessions.

Support if you’ve experienced hate crime or discrimination

We work with Bristol Hate Crime and Discrimination Services as their LGBTQ+ advisory partner. If you have concerns about hate crime or discrimination, you can contact us at Freedom. Our specialist LGBTQ+ hate crime and discrimination caseworker can listen, support, and give advice if you want it. You do not have to report to the police to access support, and we will only pass on information if we have your consent. You can ask to speak to our caseworker at a Freedom session, or you can also contact BHCDS directly using their online form or by calling 0800 171 2272.

"When I found Freedom I was lost and confused. Freedom acted as a map, to help me navigate my own path through the confusing world of gender, sexuality and identity, and now I can confidently and comfortably be myself"

Freedom feedback