Liverpool backs LGBTQ+ health with five more years of funding for Sahir

Liverpool has once again demonstrated its dedication to enhancing the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities by securing an additional five years of funding for Sahir. This support aims to expand the organisation’s vital work throughout the city, enabling it to continue serving as a cornerstone for local LGBTQ+ residents. Sahir’s efforts, which have long been central to Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ community, will be strengthened through collaboration with Public Health Liverpool and various partners to deliver essential services and improve health outcomes.

The partnership with the council’s Public Health team has been instrumental in creating an intensive support service for people living with HIV, leveraging this renewed funding to recruit a lead focused on advancing the objectives highlighted in Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ needs assessment. Cllr Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, spoke on the importance of this investment, stating, “This funding is about listening to communities and backing what works. LGBTQ+ people in Liverpool continue to face avoidable health inequalities, and this long-term commitment enables Sahir and its partners to continue making a real, lasting difference. By investing in community led services, we are taking meaningful action to improve health and wellbeing across the city.”

Under the terms of the new agreement, Sahir will maintain frontline service provision for LGBTQ+ individuals while spearheading a coalition of organisations dedicated to addressing the priorities outlined in the recent health needs assessment. This collaborative effort aims to combat disparities through coordinated, inclusive, and community-driven strategies. With over four decades of experience, Sahir has built a reputation as a trusted provider in Liverpool and surrounding areas, focusing on sexual health, wellbeing, and fostering community connections. The latest funding package will empower them to enhance these efforts and respond effectively to evolving community needs.

A key feature of the programme is the continuation and expansion of an intensive HIV support service, designed for individuals requiring specialized assistance. This service facilitates navigation through complex health and social challenges to improve engagement with healthcare, promote better health outcomes, and enhance quality of life. Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting, “Sahir brings a wealth of experience and trusted relationships within LGBTQ+ communities. Working in partnership allows us to better understand the challenges people face and to design services that genuinely meet their needs. This investment is an important step in addressing health inequalities and ensuring no one is left behind.” Additionally, Sahir will lead a citywide partnership focused on translating the LGBTQ+ health needs assessment recommendations into actionable initiatives, ensuring services remain integrated, responsive, and informed by lived experience. Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team continues to support this work with a shared emphasis on prevention, early intervention, and resilience.

Gillian Clotworthy, Services and Operations Manager at Sahir, expressed optimism about the impact of the funding: “This funding gives us the ability to plan for the long term and deepen our support for LGBTQ+ communities, as well as people living with HIV, in Liverpool. We are proud to lead this partnership and to work alongside our communities and partners to reduce inequalities, improve wellbeing and ensure people feel supported, seen and heard.” The ongoing investment affirms Sahir’s leadership, expertise, and strong community presence, as Liverpool moves forward in its commitment to building a healthier, more inclusive environment for all residents. Additional information about the partnership and forthcoming initiatives will be shared as the programme progresses

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