Clare Balding

TV Presenter and Sports Commentator

"I am pleased to say that I support the work of GALYIC. As an out lesbian in the media I hope that I am able to be a postive role model for many LGBT young people who sometimes feel, when they are trying to come to terms with their sexual orientation, that they are 'the only one.' I am delighted that my complaint to the Press Complaints Commission about the use of 'dyke' as a derogatory term in an article in The Sunday Times was upheld and hopefully this will make some journalists and the media in general think twice about the kind of language they use to describe lesbians and gays. The media can be used to challenge homophobia or, as it all too often has done in the past, encourage it. I am impressed with the work of GALYIC and hope that you are able to continue providing support for LGBT young people and their families for many years to come. All the best, Clare."

The Rt Revd Stephen Platten

Bishop of Wakefield

"The work that GALYIC does is crucial. I enjoyed meeting some of the members of GALYIC at one of their weekly youth group meetings and wrote about it for the Church Times. The Church of England has committed itself to listening to the experience of its gay and lesbian members but also to the experiences of gay people across the world. The Church has by no means always been good at listening. I am adamant that we should listen attentively to what young LGBT people are saying and challenge the homophobia that leads to so many young lives being severely affected by bullying, abuse on the streets and parental rejection. GALYIC does an impressive amount of work both in supporting young people and their families as well as raising the issues. I hope their work continues to give hope where sometimes none exists."

Nader Fekri

Calderdale Councillor, Calder Ward

"I have followed the work of GALYIC over the years with interest and have no hesitation in becoming a Supporter. GALYIC have done an enormous amount of work in Calderdale to both support young LGBT people and their families as well as challenging other services to become more accessible and responsive to their needs. It is my hope that this work not only continues but expands, particularly in helping to tackle the significant problem of homophobic bullying in schools. As a father I cannot help but be upset when I learn that some families reject their children purely on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. But, thankfully, GALYIC are there to help. May the work of GALYIC continue until it is no longer needed."

John Bowis, OBE

Former MP, MEP and Health Minister

"Whilst GALYIC are a local support group for LGBT young people in Calderdale, I am aware of the national work done by Jan and GALYIC to raise the many issues facing LGBT young people and not least, the effects of homophobia on their mental well-being. Jan contacted me many years ago when she was running Lesbian Information Service to compliment me on a speech I gave at a Mind conference on Lesbians, Gays and Mental Health. It is my turn to compliment Jan and the significant work of GALYIC. Thank you and keep up the good work!"

Sue Sanders

Sue Sanders, long-time LGBT activist, co-chair of Schools Out and founder of LGBT History Month

Sue has worked with GALYIC over the years and invited members to present at the AGM of Schools Out as well as the Pre-launch of LGBT History Month at the British Museum in 2009. Sue has the following to say about GALYIC: “Crucial organisation doing vital work - thank the goddess for all they do and make sure you support them in the crucial work they do. Forward together!”

Dominic Davies

Therapist and Founder of Pink Therapy

Dominic has thirty years experience of supporting sexual minority clients and has co-edited three editions of Pink Therapy text books. "I know only too well the effects of homophobia and transphobia on the psychological well-being of LGBT people. If it is possible to get in early and support LGBT young people, when they are coming to terms with their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, then a lot of the harmful effects of homophobia and transphobia can be avoided. This is why GALYIC, and other organisations that support young LGBT people, is so important. I feel honoured to be asked and delighted to support you and GALYIC. You're a tireless campaigner for LGBT Equality and have made a huge contribution to our community and to the lives of so many young people of all sexualities and gender identities. I have tremendous admiration for your commitment and dedication and for kicking ass when it's needed."

Linda Riorden

Halifax MP Linda Riorden

"I am happy to support GALYIC and the work they do. GALYIC do so much hard work for the young lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of Calderdale and I would like to thank Jan and GALYIC for providing this essential service. Long may they continue to thrive and promote key issues like equality, fairness and diversity."

Helena Whitbread

Retired School Teacher, Historian and Writer

"I first met Jan and some of the GALYIC members in 2006 when, as part of LGBT History Month, GALYIC invited other LGBT youth groups in West Yorkshire to Shibden Hall and asked me to give them a talk about Anne Lister. I like young people, having been a teacher for many years, so I willingly accepted this invitation. I, again, met some of the GALYIC members at Shibden Hall in 2009. This time they were putting together a presentation on Anne Lister for the LGBT History Month pre-launch event held at the British Museum in London. I was then able to see them in action in February 2010 when they gave the presentation at Hebden Bridge Library. I am more than happy to be known as a GALYIC Supporter. I feel I have an insight through my work on Anne Lister about the issues for young lesbians and this helped me when my daughter came out. I hope GALYIC grows from strength to strength so that you can support many more LGBT young people in Halifax and the surrounding area."