A new community project being launched in Newham will give lesbians, gay, bisexuals and transgenders aged over 50 support in the borough.

It is launched by Opening Doors London and Age UK Newham for LGBTs who work or socialise in Newham.

The project, which will provide regular social activities, a telephone advice and signposting service and a one to one befriending scheme, will launch on September 19 between 4pm and 8pm at Newham Community Resource Centre, Chargeable Lane, Plaistow.

The launch event will include live music, poetry and drama, and refreshments and snacks will be provided. Everyone over 50 who identify as LGBT, or who have an interest in Opening Doors London, can attend the launch.

Kate Hancock, Development Coordinator at Opening Doors London, said: “Many older LGBT people suffer from social isolation, and are not aware that specialist help and support is out there. We are really looking forward to building on the work of Opening Doors London in Newham, so that more LGBT people can benefit from these much needed and enjoyable services.”

Opening Doors London was set up in 2008 by Age UK Camden to combat isolation, increase social opportunities and support older LGBT people. Demand for the project was so high that it was able to secure statutory and lottery funding to expand the services too all London boroughs north of the Thames.

For more information about the launch event, visit www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk , email kate.hancock@ageukcamden.org.uk or call 020 7239 0400