Revista de SIDA e investigación clínica

LGBTI-Psychosocial Services and Support Adolescents and Young People in Gauteng, Pretoria South Africa: Profiling the Psychosocial Support Services of OUT (Servicing the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community)

Abstract

Leon Swartz and Gerda Erasmus

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) case study was undertaken by the National Population Unit (NPU) to assess the activities that is run by the organisation OUT. This study form part of 10 such studies with regard to youth which was undertaken by the NPU. The study made use of a mix method approach where the qualitative aspect was the dominant method. The main aim of the study was to assess how the organisation OUT provide Psychosocial Support Services to the (LGBTI) community including HIV counselling, general lifestyle counselling as well as advice and support. This programme focuses on the psychosocial well-being of LGBTI individuals and communities. This psychosocial support services forms part of the mission and vision of OUT. The study found that LGBTI individuals still experience stigma and discrimination although the South African constitution and Bill of Rights ensure the protection of the rights of all South African citizens. The study made some recommendations in this regard.