Frequently Asked Questions.
Q. What Is HopeLGBT
HopeLGBT is a community for students at Liverpool Hope University who define themselves as a minority sexuality and/or gender. (e.g. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Asexual, Transgender e.t.c.). We provide a platform to socialise, meet like-minded people and to get support as well as fighting for equality on and off campus!
Q. You fight for equality but separate yourselves in a society. Why?
We do fight for equality, and would love to see (one day) LGBT people as equals - however sadly that isn't the case in society today. LGBT people are still subject to prejudice and hate crime and having an LGBT Group means that we can support them if they need it and provide a safe space for them where they do not have to worry about such things. As part of our principles we never exclude anyone from our society - our campaign and events remain open to both LGBT Students and supportive friends who are more than welcome to get involved.
Q. Why just L.G.B.T?
Our campaign is and always has been open to ALL sexualities and genders and has never been just for the four shown in the name (lesbian, gay, bi and trans). We use the name LGBT as it is an internationally recognised acronym and allows our name to stand for what is now an umbrella term that incorporates all minority genders and sexualities. There are many variations of the letters, one of the most recent is the addition of a + symbol!
Q. Isn't The LGBT just about going out and getting drunk with other Gay people?
NO! Not at all! - Yes, we will have socials and times when we will go out if that's what you are in-to, but our main reason for being here is to represent LGBT Students and run campaigns and awareness - but we don't see why we cant have a good time doing it! Come along to a meeting or an event and see for yourself!
Q. How can I contact you?
You can contact the LGBT Officer completely confidentially by email to lgbt@hope.ac.uk - you can see more ways on the contact us page here
Q. I need advice, can you help me?
The LGBT Officer can't give advice or support on a personal level - but can help direct you to experts that can. We have a database of everyone, from GUM Clinics to Counsellors, Chaplains to Taxis - Let us know how we can help!
Q. Why Don't We Have A 'Straight' OfficerLGBT students are directly affected by discrimination and prejudice - it is for this reason that we have an LGBT campaign in the first place, to fight to make this equal. Heterosexual/Straight students don't experience the same discrimination for their sexuality, and any issues they face come from other factors that other officers on the SU will already cover in their campaign - such as Women's Rights, Ethnicity or even interests; It is often easier to ask 'What Would A 'Straight' officer do?" and then look at what your union officers do already, it is all covered - something that LGBT students don't have yet.
Q. How Do I Join? Is It Free?
Being part of HopeLGBT is free and easy! All you have to do is use the 'SIGN UP HERE!' link to the left where it will ask for your details and you will get an email confirming you are signed up.
Q. If I join up do I HAVE to do anything?
NO! You only do what you are comfortable with, we will never ask you to do anything - You can get involved as much or as little as you like!
Q. What if I am not out to everyone?
One of the reasons we have this site is so that you can see what we are doing without putting your name to it! We also keep your name and membership details strictly confidential. All of our safe-spaces are carefully planned as well as photographs and news are only done of people who give permission for it. All of our mailing list is sent by our server individually - so noone will see you are part of our mailing list, unless you show them!
Q. What do you do with my details? Are they safe?
All of the details that you provide are stored on the 'Merseyside LGBT Student Network' database which is powered by Mailchimp. This is secure, and only authorised people (who have signed confidentiality agreements) have access to the database. We will never share your details with external organisations without your permission.
Q. How do I Unsubscribe?
(We are happy that this isn't actually a Frequent Question) If you would like to stop receiving our emails then all you have to do is click the 'Unsubscribe me' link at the bottom of the last email you
Q. When do you meet?This year we have changed how we run to make way for more events, socials and campaigns!
We aim to have an event EVERY WEEK - from a quiet drink in 'Our Place' to a film night or night out we will have something for everyone! Check out the
events page here for more info.
Q. I want to get involved - How can i?
Q. How are you funded?
As part of the students' union we receive some funding for our events but to carry out all of our plans we rely on fundraising and the generosity of local partners. We welcome anyone who would like to organise events or work with us to get in touch.
Q. I want to help fund raise! What do I do!
That's great! Get in touch (lgbt@hope.ac.uk) and we can help you find a way that's best for you!
IF YOU HAVE ANY MORE QUESTIONS... Get in touch!
