That’s a wrap for 2023 🧡 As we get ready to turn our out of offices on, we're reflecting on everything that's happened in the last 12 months. 1. Ran our first Health Equity and Training (H.E.A.T) Conference (which is now CPD accredited!) 2. Launched three new healthcare guides 3. Travelled up and down the country to spread awareness of our work 4. Published issue three of our magazine, The Beetle Feed 5. Launched season two of our podcast 6. Bidding farewell to our founder and CEO, @theharveykp We couldn’t end the year without sharing our huge appreciation for everyone who has supported our work this year. From the incredible efforts of the BBH team past and present, to funders and all the people we’ve met on our travels – thank you! Head to the link in our bio to read more about our achievements in 2023. We'll be back soon and ready to take on next year 💪 [Image description: On an orange slide it reads ‘2023. A year at Black Beetle Health. There are three polaroid photos of the BBH team at events. BBH’s logo is in the footer, with a yellow line on either side.]

Big news from us - we're officially a member of @thecpdservice 🎊 We join thousands of institutions and organisations across the country who offer Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training to professionals. Sarah Grant, our Consultant Programme Manager, said: “Becoming a member of the CPD Certification Service, and now gaining accreditation for our first event, is a huge step for the charity. Black Beetle Health has always functioned as a lived-experience organisation that’s committed to providing evidence-based resources. Not only does this accreditation further validate our work, but it allows us to contribute to the continuing education goals of professionals from different sectors, while also helping to relay our principles of health equity in a systematic way.” As a member, we've been able to secure accreditation for our first ever two-day Health, Equity and Training (H.E.A.T) conference. The programme now offers 12 hours of CPD credits, which all attendees can apply for. In 2024, we are aiming to apply for accreditation for our other training offerings. Watch this space for more goings on at BBH HQ in the new year 🧡 #CPDAccredited #CPDCourse #CPDEvent #CPDTraining [Image description: On a light orange background reads 'Black Beetle Health are officially a CPD Member!'. Part of the text is in a white box. BBH's logo is in the footer.]

We're deeply sad to announce that our founder and CEO, @theharveykp, is departing Black Beetle Health at the end of this year 🧡 Harvey has been an incredible champion for Health, Equity and Wellbeing for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. We know that he is going to continue advocating for our communities and carry on a great legacy. From us all at Black Beetle Health, we thank Harvey for his unwavering commitment, wisdom and leadership. We'll be cheering him on as we watch where his journey takes him next! Read Harvey's goodbye message in these slides and give him lots of love in the comments. [Image description: White background with orange stars in the top right and bottom left corners. A photo of Harvey smiling, with his face resting in his hand, is in the middle with three circles in different shades of orange behind. The text reads 'It's so hard...to say goodbye'. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

Introducing our Breast Cancer guide for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour 🧡 We’ve worked really hard on creating this resource and hope it can be helpful in providing information and support for you. The guide covers everything you need to know about breast cancer including: - Who is affected by breast cancer - Symptoms to look out for - What happens during a breast cancer appointment - Diagnosis and stages of breast cancer - Deciding what breast cancer treatment is right for you - Support after treatment As with all our resources, this guide has been made by and for LGBTQ+ BPoC. It can also be used for folks working with LGBTQ+ BPoC in healthcare or other settings. We have a downloadable poster of the resource on our website for your clinic, surgery or community space. Print the poster, scan the QR code, and you’ll be taken straight to our Breast Cancer guide. Link in our bio to download the guide and poster. #BreastCancerAwareness #BreastCancerSupport #CheckYourBreasts #CheckYourChest #BreastCancerTreatment #ChronicIllness

Great to spend some time this evening connecting with colleagues old and new and learning more about the @indigogenderservice at tonight’s Transgender Healthcare Networking. From pre-contemplation stage to consultation, surgery, and beyond!—The work to support members of our community to navigate services safely and make informed decisions is essential. We look forward to exploring the ways in which we can work with @indigogenderservice and @lgbtfdn to ensure everyone who wishes to access these services can access them and feel both supported and accepted. #transhealthcare #trans #equity #access #networking

Check out these rapid-fire interviews with some of our conference delegates, interviewed by the lovely @kayfkays #BBHHealthEquity2023 #healthequity #healthinequalities #sexualhealth #mentalhealth #reproductivejustice #chronicconditions

Nothing would be possible without our conference DREAM TEAM of highly passionate, highly skilled, and highly motivated, lived experience individuals!🔥 You have set the bar high! We are inspired by your leadership and ownership of this opportunity. #BBHHealthEquity2023 #conference #healthequity #healthinequalities #sexualhealth #mentalhealth #reproductivejustice #chronicconditions

A powerful end a fantastic two-day conference experience here at @blackbeetlehealth Day two led to the completion of Modules 4, 5, 6, and 7 of our H.E.A.T. Training Programme, with even more for networking and connection. In Module 4 ‘Addressing Health Inequalities’, we waded through the data in search for a better understanding of the l factors that contribute to ill health for LGBTQ+ People of Colour. Module 5 ‘Creating and Evidence Base’ took us on a guided tour of existing data collection practices and helped participants better understand how to avoid ‘bad’ research practices while we seek to develop our understanding of LGBTQ+ People of Colour experiences. Module 6 ‘The Power of Cultural Capital’ illuminated how disparities are driven by abuse of power and lack of access to much-needed social and cultural capital in marginalized communities. It reiterated the need for interventions that build capacity for LGBTQ+ People of Colour and bud a path toward progress. The final module, Module 7 ‘Health Outcomes: A Community-led Approach’ reminded us that community can be an afterthought, but that when communities lead, they thrive as experts of their own experiences. As a conference team, we are so full and empowered through this opportunity to be a part of this unique initiative and look to forward phase of our HEAT Academy! #BBHHealthEquity2023 #healthequity #healthinequalities #sexualhealth #mentalhealth #reproductivejustice #chronicconditions

Just the beginning! As our conference comes to a close, we thought it would be a good opportunity to announce our Health Equity and Advocacy Training (H.E.A.T.) Academy! Our Academy is made up of four parts, one of which has been our conference: ⭐️ HEAT Conference ⭐️ e-Learning Platform ⭐️ Community of Practice ⭐️ Champions Scheme Are you interested in learning more about our Academy and joining the LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity movement? Drop us an email at admin@blackbeetlehealth.co.uk to get an information pack today!

A bit about our exhibitors! #bbhhealthequity2023

Day ONE highlights from the @blackbeetlehealth LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference! 🎥 #equity #healthcare #lgbt #conference #manchester #charity

An exciting first day for @blackbeetlehealth at the LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference today! Day one included completion of Modules 1, 2, and 3 of our H.E.A.T. Training Programme, with several opportunities for networking, connection, and plenty of delicious food to go around. In Module 1 ‘LGBTQ+ Terminology’, we engaged in meaningful conversation around some language and terminology we knew well but also held space for learning and discussion around terminology we were less confident using. Module 2 ‘Racism and Health Inequalities’ brought about safe, compassionate, and informed dialogue around the relationship between race and long standing health inequalities for LGBTQ+ People of Colour. Module 3 ‘Decolonising the Colonised’ sharpened our understanding of colonisation, globally, which led to a vibrant and rich dialogue around our roles and responsibilities as professionals and practitioners to dismantle longstanding systems of oppression and cling to progress. Day two is just on the horizon! #BBHHealthEquity2023 #healthequity #healthinequalities #sexualhealth #mentalhealth #reproductivejustice #chronicconditions

We're less than a week away from our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's the last session we'll be exploring on day two 👇 Module 7: Health Outcomes - The Community-led Approach We'll discuss community approaches to health program designs and interventions, the importance of community-led work and the ways in which we can ensure we place communities at the centre of our practice. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket - we have a few left!

It was boots on the ground in London today at the HIV Prevention England (HPE) Local Activation Partnership post-summer activity wrap up meeting, with our partners at @thtorguk. As a sector, our collective fight against #hivstigma for the most vulnerable key populations must remain a top priority. So glad we were able to have representation from the lovely @kayfkays in the room. #hiv #hivstigma #testing

It isn’t an expert lived experience-led conference without expert lived experience trainers leading the way! As such, we are pleased to welcome @yatininspire former IT Consultant turned entrepreneur, mindset coach, and Chair of Trustees at @lgbtconsortium We will also be joined by clinical psychologist, QTIPoC Liberation Specialist and consultant @brown_rioting_papaya Last but not least, we will be joined by @rjchace who is Head of Trans Inclusion at @ukblackpride and trustee at @lgbtconsortium What a lineup!✊🏽✊🏼✊🏾 Check out the full post to learn even more about our fantastic conference trainers and click the link in our bio to get your FREE ticket! 🎟️

We're just over a week away from our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's one of the sessions we'll be exploring on day two 👇 Module 6: The Power of Cultural Capital We will examine the role of social wealth and cultural capital on populations and identify key deficiencies in social infrastructure that affect social and cultural wealth development, particularly for LGBTQ+ BPoC. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket!

We're less than two weeks away from our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's what we'll be exploring in day two 👇 Module 5: Developing an Evidence Base In this module, we will consider the importance of representation and its link to health outcomes. On top of this, we'll learn how data can be used to improve the health outcomes of LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket!

We love it when a parcel arrives! - This time, it was our conference workbooks, which are finally here.🔥 Our fabulous keynote speakers are rummaging through their wardrobes and our brilliant expert lived experience trainers are flipping through their slides, all to make this conference one to remember! Limited number of spaces available - Register today, for FREE! Spread the word - The link is in our bio! #conferences #lgbt #lgbtq #lgbti #healthequity #power #discrimination #health #queerhealth #BBHHealthEquity2023

We're two weeks away from our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference! Have you got your free ticket yet? 🎟️ Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee ticket: Free Exhibitor ticket: Between £30 - £50 for a table depending on your organisation The two-day event will cover our programme, H.E.A.T (Health Equity and Advocacy Training). This accredited, 7-module course is designed for practitioners engaging with LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour across health, wellbeing and equality. We developed H.E.A.T to: - Facilitate improved understanding of the issues that contribute to health disparities for LGBTQ+ BPoC - Create a space for meaningful discussion around the decolonisation of theories and practices that have impacted LGBTQ+ BPoC in healthcare Want to spread awareness of your services to other folks in healthcare at the event? Book a stall! Our exhibitor space is for health, wellbeing and/or equity charities, organisations and grassroots groups to share information and resources. Join a line up of other organisations, including @the_proud_trust and @lgbtfdn 🧡 Tables are limited and prices range from £30 to £50 (based on the size of your org) to exhibit. Find out more at the link in our bio and book your ticket on Eventbrite. DM us if you have any questions. [Image description: ‘LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference’ is written in orange in a white strip. There is a faded image of a conference in the background. An illustration of a person presenting the H.E.A.T programme is in front. The location, date and time, as per the caption, is also included with text reading: Built around our existing LGBTQ+ BPoC H.E.A.T. Programme, our two-day conference will include with the following words: LGBTQ+ BPoC terms, racism, evidence base, decolonisation, health disparities, cultural capital, community-led approach. In the footer is Black Beetle Health’s logo, alongside sponsors and supporters for the event.]

Sign up for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's what we'll be exploring 👇 Module 4: Addressing Disparities within Health and Wellbeing We'll paint a broad picture of LGBTQ+ BPOC health outcomes in the UK, highlight why certain groups experience poorer health outcomes and the correlation between improved access to healthcare and quality of life. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket!

Meet @jskychat, one of the keynote speakers for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🧡 Learn more about Jsky in these slides and head to the link in our bio to book your FREE ticket! Can't make the Conference? Pass it on to your colleagues, workplaces, friends and chosen fam working in health, care and wellbeing sectors. [Image description: 'Meet Our Keynote Speakers' is written in large orange italic text. The background is a white box, with different shades of orange around it. 'Jsky' is below the title. A photo of Jsky is in a circle shape with a white outline. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

Meet @italo_ettenes, one of the keynote speakers for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🧡 Learn more about Patrick in these slides and head to the link in our bio to book your FREE ticket! Can't make the Conference? Pass it on to your colleagues, workplaces, friends and chosen fam working in health, care and wellbeing sectors. [Image description: 'Meet Our Keynote Speakers' is written in large orange italic text. The background is a white box, with different shades of orange around it. 'Patrick Ettenes he/she' is below the title. A photo of Patrick with his face resting on her hand is in a circle shape with a white outline. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

Meet the keynote speakers for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🧡 Dementia and HIV advocate, @italo_ettenes. Singer/songwriter, presenter and fashionista, @jskychat. Learn more about Patrick and Jsky in these slides and book your FREE ticket at the link in our bio! Can't make the Conference? Pass it on to your colleagues, workplaces, friends and chosen fam working in health, care and wellbeing sectors. We've also got tickets available for any orgs, groups or non-profits who want to run a stall at the event! Details in our bio on Eventbrite. [Image description: 'Meet Our Speakers' is written in large, bold white text. Photos of Jsky and Patrick are in circles below with orange and white borders. The background is different shades of orange with lighter orange shapes behind Patrick and Jsky. 'LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference' is in a white box below and written below in bold orange text.]

Sign up for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's what we'll be exploring 👇 Module 3: Decolonising the Colonised We'll confront the term colonisation and discuss its historical role in health inequity. Alongside this, we will examine the negative impact of colonisation on health outcomes for LGBTQ+ BPoC and how decolonisation initiatives can be implemented across health, care and related sectors. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket! #Education #Healthcare #CPDTraining

Sign up for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Here's what we'll be exploring 👇 Module 2: The Role of Racism in Health Inequity In this module, we'll discuss the formal definition of racism and examine its impact on LGBTQ+ people from communities experiencing racism. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket!

Sign up for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟 Over the two-day event, we'll be exploring our H.E.A.T. (Health Equity and Advocacy Training) programme! Here's what's coming up in the first session 👇 Module 1: LGBTQ+ BPoC Terminology We will cover terminology relating to race, gender, sexuality, as well as their intersections and explore the importance of using safe, sensitive and inclusive language in your advocacy for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee tickets: Free Exhibitor tickets: Between £30-£50 (depending on your org) Head to the link in our bio to get your free ticket.

Meet one of our new Trustees, Isaiah (they/them) 🧡 Isaiah is a mental health researcher with a background in youth worker and mental health support outside of hospital settings. Their personal beliefs have always blended into their professional life, with their first job being a mentor on a summer youth program at 16 years old. Swipe to find out more about Isaiah and click the link in our bio to learn about our work! [Image description: A darker orange background. 'Meet our Trustees' is written in bold italic orange text. Isaiah Brodrick (they/them), Trustee is below. All the text is in a white box. Surrounding the box are two lighter orange boxes at an angle. One box has light orange dots inside. A photo of Isaiah in a circle shape is to the right.]

Meet one of our new Trustees, Calvin @re.cal.ibrating (he/him) 🧡 Calvin, a native of Bermuda, has dedicated his career to promoting health and mental wellness within marginalised communities. Since relocating to the UK, Calvin has worked as a support worker, health advisor, and sexual violence advocate, gaining invaluable insights into the ways society impacts the most vulnerable and marginalised populations within the healthcare and justice systems. Swipe to find out more about Calvin and click the link in our bio to learn about our work! [Image description: A darker orange background. 'Meet our Trustees' is written in bold italic orange text. Calvin Stovell (he/him), Trustee is below. All the text is in a white box. Surrounding the box are two lighter orange boxes at an angle. One box has light orange dots inside. A photo of Calvin in a circle shape is to the right. He's resting his chin on a hand, wearing glasses, and smiling at the camera.]

Meet our new Secretary Trustee, Talycia Nayee (she/her) 🧡 Talycia is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant who has worked to champion the needs of People of Colour and the LGBTQ+ community. She's worked as a trainer and consultant for LGBTQ+ charities and nonprofits to raise awareness on our unique and intersectional needs. Swipe to find out more about Talycia and click the link in our bio to learn about our work! [Image description: A darker orange background. 'Meet our Trustees' is written in bold italic orange text. Taylcia Nayee (she/her), Secretary Trustee is below. All the text is in a white box. Surrounding the box are two lighter orange boxes at an angle. One box has light orange dots inside. A photo of Talycia in a circle shape is to the right. She's smiling with greenery in the background.]

Alongside @lgbtconsortium and many other LGBTQ+ organisations, we are taking a stand to support our trans family ✊ We will never stop advocating for BPOC trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming, gender fluid and intersex communities. Read our statement on Instagram for more about our position on healthcare for all. And make sure to share this message far and wide with allies, family and friends, businesses, voluntary organisations and anyone else who can show their solidarity 🏳️‍⚧️ #TransRights #TransRightsAreHumanRights #TogetherAlways [Image description: Dark grey background. 'Enough! Trans people are people too. Together. Always.' is written in bold text in a mix of white, blue and pink. A heart with a trans flag shaped inside it is in the middle.]

We were shocked by the news released last week regarding the return of 'sex-specific language' to the NHS and its affiliate organisations. Such a decision marks the undoing of years of work to improve the access, experiences and outcomes of care for members of our community. This work exists to ensure that trans communities are seen, heard and supported by national services. To our trans family - we stand with you. Everyone has a right to safe and supportive healthcare. [Image description: On a light gradient orange background reads 'A statement from Black Beetle Health' with BBH's logo in the footer.]

Tickets are live for our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference 🎟️ Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT Attendee ticket: Free Exhibitor ticket: Between £30 - £50 for a table depending on your organisation The two-day event will cover our programme, H.E.A.T (Health Equity and Advocacy Training). This accredited, 7-module course is designed for practitioners engaging with LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour across health, wellbeing and equality. We developed H.E.A.T to: - Facilitate improved understanding of the issues that contribute to health disparities for LGBTQ+ BPoC - Create a space for meaningful discussion around the decolonisation of theories and practices that have impacted LGBTQ+ BPoC in healthcare We will also have an exhibitor space at the conference for any health, wellbeing and/or equity charities, organisations and grassroots groups to share information and resources. Tables are limited and prices range from £30 to £50, based on the size of your org, to exhibit. Find out more at the link in our bio and book your ticket on Eventbrite 🧡 Any questions? DM us! [Image description: ‘LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference’ is written in orange in a white strip. There is a faded image of a conference in the background. An illustration of a person presenting the H.E.A.T programme is in front. The location, date and time, as per the caption, is also included with text reading: Built around our existing LGBTQ+ BPoC H.E.A.T. Programme, our two-day conference will include: In the footer is Black Beetle Health’s logo, alongside sponsors and supporters for the event.]

We had an amazing time with @livingfree_uk at this year's AfroYanga 🧡 The event is a celebration of LGBTQ+ migrants, asylum seekers and refugees of African descent. Calvin, one of our Trustees, delivered a workshop on the day which explored accessing sexual health support in the UK. Big thanks to @livingfree_uk for having us - we'll see you next year! [Image description: Calvin, wearing a colourful shirt with glasses resting on his head, is sitting with a group of other people at a table. There are phones, styrofoam cups and note cards on the table.] Photos by @africanqueerandcreative

Save the dates – our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference is coming 🔥 Dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th November Time: 9:30am-4pm Location: Wilson Suite, Holiday Inn, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester M1 3DT The 2-day event will cover our programme, H.E.A.T (Health Equity and Advocacy Training). This 7-module course is designed for practitioners engaging with LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour across health, wellbeing and equality. We developed H.E.A.T to: - Facilitate improved understanding of the issues that contribute to health disparities for LGBTQ+ BPoC - Create a space for meaningful discussion around the decolonisation of theories and practices that have impacted LGBTQ+ BPoC in healthcare We’ll be announcing more details soon – including how to register! In the meantime, find out more about the H.E.A.T programme on our website at the link in our bio. [Image description: ‘SAVE THE DATE!’ is written in bold text in a dark orange strip. A lighter orange strip below reads: ‘LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Conference.’ Below are the times and dates: Thursday 16 Nov and Friday 17 Nov at 9:30am-4pm. There are three illustrations of people looking towards an LGBTQ+ flag, a presentation, and another group of people in a circle. In the footer is Black Beetle Health’s logo, alongside sponsors and supporters for the event.]

Praying the rain away today at Levenshulme Pride alongside out colleagues up from @thtorguk Off to a great start! Come down and see up, won’t you!? . . #localpride #levenshulme #pride #prideseason

@blackbeetlehealth are incredibly grateful to have been invited to represent our UK colleagues at the European Key Populations HIV Prevention Workshop in Paris, France this week, hostes by @gbgmc_international in partnership with @houseofrainbow_ 100%LIFE & @gileadsciences The focus of this workshop was to bring together representatives from across a range of European member states not only to share perspectives, but to clarify our priorities in addressing HIV prevention for key populations, celebrate progress, champion best practice, and organise ourselves as catalysts for change in the field of HIV Prevention. It was also uniquely noted that this was a first in terms of the representation in the room being majority Black and Brown expert lived experience professionals who were in attendance, leading and, driving priorities highlighted throughout the conversation. So many meaningful connections, continuation of existing work, and the start to some really fantastic work ahead!

Blown away by our amazing experience at @sparkle.weekend today, where, in spite of the off and on showers, we were able to make a range of truly meaningful connections with other trans people of colour and bring a greater level of awareness to our wider allies. Long live @sparkle.weekend 🩷🩵💙💕 #transjoy #pride #🩷💙

We’re pleased to have been invited to present our award-winning poster yet again! This time, at the Manchester International Festival of Public Health at @officialuom This poster is the product of our original 2021 InsideOUT Report, which reflects perspectives on health, wellbeing, and equalities for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. Representing communities in ALL spaces! . . #forusbyus #lgbt #prideinacademia #peopleofcolour #lgbtq

Happy Pride from all of us at Black Beetle Health 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️ It’s been a busy time for the team (how has it gone so fast?). We’ve released weekly episodes of our podcast, brought you a new issue of the Beetle Feed, travelled up and down the country – and more! Swipe through to see what we’ve been up to and read the full lowdown on our website. If you’re an ally reading this and love what we do – support us after Pride. Head to the link in our bio to donate 🧡 Not able to donate? Share the page with friends, family and allies in your life who could chip in. And never forget Pride is - and always will be - a protest. We’re always so humbled that we’re able to be out here and advocate for our communities – during Pride and every day of the year. Being visible as LGBTQ+ BPoC isn’t always possible. Pride is a privilege that we don’t take for granted. We’re here celebrating Pride for everyone and you, regardless of whether you can be out or not. #HappyPrideMonth #PrideMonth2023 #QTIBPOC #Healthcare --- Image description – slide 1: Harvey from Black Beetle Health is holding a banner with BBH's logo, turned away from the camera, as people are walking in front of him.

Episode 8 of our pod - and the last one for this month - is here 🎧 Elliss-Lewin Turner (she/her) chats with Ibtisam Ahmed (he/him), who is the @lgbtfdn's Policy and Research Manager working to expand intersectional activism. He shares with us more about a recent research project on LGBTQ+ migrants and their experiences of healthcare. Ibtisam also speaks on the emotional challenges of researching a community you’re part of. We've loved bringing you weekly episodes to your timeline! Who's been your favourite guest this season? Tune in to Ibtisam's ep and then have a listen to the rest of the line-up if you haven't already 🧡 Head to our bio to check it out.

We've been blown away by the amazing response from our talk at @bashh_uk yesterday 🧡 Thanks to everyone who made it down to hear us speak about health disparities LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour experience and our library of resources. (Hey to all our new followers!) Big up @eshekiamazuri for their first big presentation with us and new member of the Black Beetle Health team - you smashed it! And a shout out to everyone who tagged us on Twitter with pics, too. [Image description - slide 1: Eshe stands next to a BASHH pull-up banner, smiling at the camera and holding up a peace sign. Eshe is indoors, and outside the window, are a few cars and a glimpse of the sea.] #BASHH2023 #Healthcare #PrideMonth2023 #HIVPrevention

Hot off the press – issue 3 of the Black Beetle Feed is out now 💅 In this edition, we explore what a Material World means as LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. What’s inside? - Henock Solomon explores the history of clothing in Ethiopia and gender-neutral garments - We sit down with @quench_london who bring us the lowdown on clothing, community and consent at play parties - Multidisciplinary artist, @sademica, lets us in on their working practice and how they find making binders therapeutic - Poetry from Nash Sithole And much more! Grab a drink, get comfortable, and dive into it. You can download a copy over at the link in our bio. We’re so excited to hear what you think! Drop a comment with your favourite article and what you'd like to see us cover next 🧡 #PrideMonth2023 #TransRightsAreHumanRights #QTIBPOC #LGBTQCommunity

Wythenshawe Pride completed 🧡 Last weekend we set off to Woodhouse Park Lifestyle Centre and brought our new volunteer, Jorge, along for the ride. We were blown away with how cared, supported and held we felt by the organisers and everyone who made the space so welcoming. This is how you show up for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour! Small and local Pride events are one of the key ways that we reach people in our community - and we're so humbled by all the love we received on the day. If you'd like to see us at more events, check out how you can donate. Any amount you're able to give will help us to keep doing what we do - including travelling to speak about the importance of health, wellbeing and equity for LGBTQ+ BPoC. Link in our bio. [Image description - slide 1: Jorge is holding a healthcare resource, with Kay standing next to him. They're both smiling while behind a stall with BBH resources and other merch. To the left of Kay is a Black Beetle Health pull-up poster and a banner hanging above them. I Test posters also hang on the wall.]

This week on our podcast, Elliss-Lewin Turner (she/her) sits down with Jay Swinnerton (they/them) aka Shanika Sunrise, whose drag person has emerged from hiatus following a cancer relapse. Jay speaks about the lesser-known aspects of the cancer survival journey - from their first dismissive doctor’s appointment to the ways they celebrate life today. Listen on Spotify and take care of yourself when tuning in (content warning on grief, loss and hospitalisation) 🧡 And make sure to sign up to @anthonynolancharity's stem cell register. Find out more about them in this ep or check out their website. Both links in our bio. #CancerSurvival #CancerAwareness #PrideMonth2023 #CancerCare

We're back with another episode of our weekly podcast 🎧 Elliss-Lewin Turner (she/her) chats with Kai aka Frogboi (they/them), an interdisciplinary artist, drag goblin and ambulatory wheelchair user. Frogboi's experience of ME/CFS and arthritis led them to harness the power of community and fundraise for their powerchair. In the ep, the two discuss being visibly disabled, alongside the hilarious moments as well as the frustrations. Listen and catch-up on the season at the link in our bio 🧡

Taking it back to last weekend's historic @houseofspicemcr takeover to fight against racism in Manchester by celebrating LGBTQ+ BPoC joy 🧡 We were a supporting partner of the event and honoured to join the parade, showing up for LGBTQ+ BPoC in Canal Street/the Village. (Swipe to see our CEO, Harvey, waving a BBH banner high!) On the day, non-PoC folks also took part - and a reminder how allies can support. This is only the beginning of much needed change - and we're proud to be part of it.

In the latest episode of our podcast, Elliss Lewin-Turner (she/her) is joined by writer and performer mandla rae 🎙️ @mandlamx shares experiences of repacking trauma into art, in the form of ‘as british as a watermelon.’ Elliss and mandla also discuss touring as an artist with chronic pain and the lesson’s mandla has learnt along the way. Check out the ep at the link in our bio and comment below with your thoughts!

We are really excited to share that the gorgeous @kayfkays will be representing us at the @lgbtiscotland Scottish Trans Conference 2023 in Dundee today, sharing insight and knowledge on key health disparities for LGBTQ+ People of Colour and the way in which we are working to redefine the standard of health outcomes for our communities! #ontheroad #conference #pride #pridemonth #transandproud #transisbeautiful

We’re rounding up the week with another episode of our pod! Today, Elliss Lewin-Turner (she/her) sits down with @houseofrainbow_ founder @jidemacaulay (he/him). Jide was born and raised in a Nigerian, conservative Christian household and excommunicated due to his sexuality. 20 years after being diagnosed with HIV and 17 years since founding @houseofrainbow_ , he talks with our host Elliss about how he relearned God’s love. Check out the full episode at the link in our bio 🧡

This month, we're celebrating Pride and ringing in our fourth bday 🥳 From starting out on Instagram, to creating a library of healthcare guides and representing LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour across the UK - we've come along way. Swipe to see some memories of us over the last few years. (We're out here putting in the work!) And if you want to carry on supporting us, you can. Head to our bio and click the donation button. We're a small charity, led by and for the community, with limited funding. Your donations will help us to continue reaching LGBTQ+ BPoC and allow us to keep going - during Pride and beyond. If you're not able to support right now, let the people in your life know about us! We're here all year and couldn't do all of this without your support and love from our community. A shout out to everyone - past and present - who has been part of our journey, from our team working behind the scenes, to you reading. Here's to many more years ahead 🧡 [Image description - slide 1: A group photo of the wonderful Black Beetle Health team at the BBH social. Everyone is grinning and looking beaut!]

Pride Month is in full swing and to celebrate, we’re releasing not one - but two new weekly episodes - of our podcast in June! Elliss Lewin-Turner (she/her) is back this week and catching up with non-binary medical student, Georgie Webster (they/them). The “down to earth medic” shares their experiences as a young, queer, Black, future doctor and navigating care as a student and patient. They also discuss inclusive sexual health, power imbalance in healthcare settings, and the importance of having a community mindset towards health. Listen to the latest episode at the link in our bio. We’d love to hear what you think – drop a comment below with your thoughts.

We're back with another episode of our podcast 🎧 This week, our host Elliss (she/her) is joined by self-titled Jack-of-all-trades, Dumisani Nyathi (they/them). They discuss surviving the zombie apocalypse, role models and inspiring the next generation of intersectional people in the charity sector and healthcare. Link in our bio to tune in. And if you haven't caught up on the first episode of this new season, give that a listen too!

We're out here making history 🏳️‍🌈 For the first time ever, we'll be marching in @manchesterpride's parade! We can't wait to represent our LGBTQ+ BPoC siblings. (And of course, bringing all the good vibes.) Want to join us on the march in August? Hop online for our volunteer meet and greet on Tuesday 30 May. You'll get to meet our current volunteers, learn more about our work and find out how to get involved. Click the link in our bio to sign up. [Image description: A colourful gradient - from purple, to yellow, to red background. Two white hearts on either side of the text with lines around them. The text reads: 'We're marching in Manchester's Pride Parade.' Below is an illustration of three LGBTQ+ people of colour. Two people are holding a trans and LGBTQ+ flag, the other is wearing a t-shirt with the lesbian flag colours. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer in a white strip.]

Sound the alarm - our podcast is back 🎊 @ellisspotato (she/her) returns to hosting duties for season 2 - and what a line-up we've got planned for you! In this episode, Elliss is joined by @davidkamkw (he/him) who talks about his multi-faceted and person-led practices with wellbeing at the root. Whether it’s dance, yoga or mindful walks, David wants to get us moving – at our own pace. What is true mindfulness? How do we make self-care work for us all and our range of experiences, needs and abilities? And can it be fun? Click the link in our bio to tune in and find out 🧡 And if you haven't already, give our last season a go and let us know what you think! [Image description: Background is half pink and orange. In the middle is a cirlce with the Black Beetle Health Podcast logo reading 'Season 2, Episode 1. Cut-out photos of Elliss and David, with a pink outline, are below with highlighted text reading 'Movement of the Mind' in the middle.]

Volunteers make the world go round! @blackbeetlehealth are excited to host our first Volunteer Evening of the year on Tuesday, 30th May from 6:00 to 7:00pm, and you are invited! • Learn more about the organisation • Meet existing volunteers • Explore how you can get involved Access the link to let us know if you’re coming! **LINK IN BIO**

What a roundtable moment today at the @lgbtconsortium Intersectional Leaders Workshop, discussing what we need as grassroots organisations to further develop leadership capacity, create growth and sustainability, innovate with confidence! Big thanks to Leyla and LJ from the Consortium for creating such a safe, sensitive, and inclusive space today!

On our way to join our colleagues at @lgbtconsortium for the Equity Panel event @leedsplayhouse where we will be sharing perspectives on our journey as a charity and lessons learned over the past four years the Charity’s existence. #lgbtq #poc #equity #charity #panels

Pleased to have been graciously invited to represent LGBTQ+ People of Colour across the UK at the @unitednations roundtable on discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ People. In talks with UN Independent Expert of Protection against Violence and Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Mr Victor Madrigal-Borloz, we shared deeply personal experiences as well as professional insight on discrimination and violence (seen and unseen) against LGBTQ+ People of Colour in the UK today. In addition to core themes such as employment, housing, education, and representation, we also explored themes around: 🤝 Belonging 📊 Intersectional Data Poverty 🛡 Passive Discrimination and Violence 🚫 Lack of Action ⛰ Capacity and 📣 The dangers of perceived advancement, resulting in a decline in support. We also shared our recent community-led participatory study in the form of a report ‘InsideOUT: Perspectives of LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour’ as well as the manuscript for our upcoming academic publication ‘Inside Out: Perspectives on health, wellbeing, and equality for raciosexual minority individuals in the UK’. #discrimination #violence #belonging #datapoverty #unitednations #LGBTQ #peopleofcolour

Donate to support our work! We’re a community public health organisation and registered charity with the ambition of improving the access, experience, and outcomes of care for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour across the UK. Over the past four years, we have: - Produced a full library of free and downloadable digital health resources - Released findings of our community-led participatory research study in our InsideOUT report - Designed and shared our LGBTQ+ BPoC Health Equity and Advocacy Toolkit - Created and piloted a seven-module Health Equity and Advocacy Training (H.E.A.T.) programme - Launched a full season of the Black Beetle Health Podcast - Released two issues of The Beetle Feed magazine There’s so much planned we want to do, including launching our Health Equity e-Learning platform. But we need your support to get there! Swipe through to find out how your donations can help to keep our work going. Head to the link in our bio or scan the QR code to support 🧡 [Image description: A photo of team members of BBH sitting and laughing is highlighted in green, to the left. An illustration of a hand holding a heart in white is below. Orange dots fade onto the image and turn into a block colour on the right. Text over it reads: We need your help! Here are six ways your donation can support us! A QR code is below the text, with a yellow arrow pointing to the next slide.] #FeedTheBeetle #MentalHealth #ChronicConditions #ReproductiveHealth #SexualHealth

We took a trip down to London for @thtorguk's HIV Prevention England planning day last week! Thanks for having us and we're so excited to see what comes out of all the brainstorming and connections built 🧡 [Image description: Harvey and Elliss on the underground taking a selfie. The next slide is a group shot of folks at the planning day, laughing and smiling.]

A little throwback to our Community Research in Partnership Workshop delivered at @officialuom last week! This work was part of a collab with the University of Manchester to explore lessons, challenges and provide guidance for uni researchers working with communities. If you're looking for experts on health, wellbeing and equity for LGBTQ+ BPoC, you know where we're at. Drop us a DM to get the convo started 🧡 [Image description: A group shot of team from BBH standing in front of an image promoting the event and a table branded with Black Beetle's logo. The next slides are of Harvey and Jamie presenting their sections of the workshop.]

University researchers and community orgs - this one's for you! We'll be delivering a session at @officialuom on lessons, challenges and guidance for uni researchers working with communities. Date: Tuesday 11th April Time: 10am-12pm Location: The University of Manchester, ALB Room G.020, Oxford Road, M13 9PL. It's wheelchair accessible Lunch will be provided after the event too 🧡 There are limited spaces available, so if you haven't already booked get your ticket now. Sign up at the link in our bio. [Image description: Half of image is highlighted in blue, with several people. The other half is in orange, with details of the event and location. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer in a white strip.]

Introducing our new mental health guides! Eating Distress and Eating Disorders covers topics including: - What is eating distress - Fatshaming and fatphobia - BMI and racism Hearing Voices and Seeing Visions covers topics including: - What it's like to hear voices and see visions - Stigmas around hearing voices and seeing visions - The Hearing Voices Movement As with all our resources, they're made by and for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. If you work with LGBTQ+ BPoC in healthcare, mental health support or another setting - share our guides with them and let us know we're here 🧡 Link in our bio to check out both guides now. We'd love to hear your thoughts too. DM us or leave a comment below to let us know what you think. #Healthcare #LGBTQ #BIPOC #MentalHealthLGBT #EatingDisorderAwareness #HearingVoicesMovement [ID: A light beige background with a series of white dots. Two of our new mental health guides - Hearing Voices and Seeing Visions and Eating Distress and Eating Disorders - are laid over the dots. Bold orange text reads 'New!' in the top left hand corner. In the bottom right corner reads 'mental health guides out now' in bold orange text, in a white circle with orange outline. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

We're releasing not one, but two new guides this month! Join us for the launch of our Hearing Voices and Seeing Visions resource. Date: Wednesday 29th March Time: 6-7:30pm Location: Online With this new guide, we aim to offer a resource that is more relevant to the experiences of people in our community who hear voices or see visions, as well as their families and friends. This event is aimed at LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour and those who support them, including people working in healthcare, policy makers, community organisations and friends and families. Click the link in our bio to book your place 🧡 [Image description: 'Hearing Voices and Seeing Visions LGBTQ+ BPoC Resource Launch' is written in bold white and orange letters. One block with the title is in orange, while the other half is in white. The time and dates are written below, with a cover of the guide opposite and examples of pages. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

New event alert! Join us for the launch of our mental health guide - Eating Distress and Eating Disorders. Date: Monday 27th March Time: 6-7:30pm Location: Online This guide explores topics like stigma/fatphobia, LGBTQ+ identities, medicalised racism and food insecurity. This event is aimed at LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour and those who support them, including people working in healthcare, policy makers, community organisations and friends and families. Click the link in our bio to book your place 🧡 [Image description: 'Eating Distress and Eating Disorders' LGBTQ+ BPoC Resource Launch is written in bold white letters on an orange strip in the righthand top corner. The time and dates are written below, with a cover of the guide opposite and examples of pages. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

It's the last day of #LGBTHistoryMonth, but it's not the end of our work! As a public health community organisation and charity, we rely on funding and donations to keep the magic going. We empower folks through our community-based resources for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. From our healthcare guides, to trainings and magazine, we're out here putting a spotlight on the importance of health, wellbeing and equity for LGBTQ+ BPoC. If you're in a position to chip in, we can't thank you enough for supporting the work we do, but most importantly, the communities we're here for. The link is in our bio 🧡 We know it's tough times right now for lots of people, so there's no pressure to donate. Liking, sharing and saving this post to get it out there to people means so much to us too. #LGBTOrganisation #QTBIPOC #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #Healthcare [Image description: An LGBTQ+ flag is poking out behind a gradient block, turning from yellow, to green, to blue then purple in a line. 'Donate' is in a green block and white text, with green hearts above it. 'to support black Beetle Health' is written beside it, in a white bold text and a green outline. Upside down green hearts are at the end of 'health'. 'donorbox.org/feedthebeetle' is written below it, half in white text, the other in yellow. 'Link' is in yellow bold text, followed by 'in bio' in white. The footer is the Black Beetle Health logo in a white strip.]

Meet our Trustees 🏳️‍🌈 Our team of Trustees are instrumental in keeping Black Beetle Health's mission going. Swipe to find out who is on the team and drop a comment below to say hi! Link in our bio to learn more about our team and the work we do 🧡 #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #MeetTheTeam #LGBTQ #BPOC [Image description: An LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind a block with paint-like texture with blue, green, pink colours. 'Meet the Trustees' is written in bold white letters. Below are circles featuring photos of the Black Beetle Health team. A big circle is in the middle of the BBH team sitting down and listening to someone speak. The Black Beetle Health logo is in white strip, in the footer.]

Meet our advisory board 🏳️‍🌈 At Black Beetle Health, we have a wealth of experienced folks helping to guide our work. Swipe to find out who is on the team and drop a comment below to say hey. Two folks from the advisory board are also featured in our magazine and podcast! Read Nash's poetry in issue two of The Beetle Feed and listen to Makinder speaking about sexual health for queer men of colour on our pod. Both links in our bio 🧡 #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #MeetTheTeam #LGBTQ #BPOC [Image description: An LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind a green and red gradient box. 'Meet the team' is written in bold white letters. Below are circles featuring photos of the Black Beetle Health team. A big circle is in the middle of four of the BBH team sitting down and listening to someone speak. The Black Beetle Health logo is in white strip, in the footer.]

If you don't know, now you know! We've got our own podcast 🎙️ Hosts Elliss and Patrick speak to LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour about a wide range of topics - from body image, to disability and queer activism. Season two of the pod is coming out soon. So, if you haven't listened back to past episodes - now's your chance! Link in our bio to press play on the first season. We also have transcriptions on our website 🧡 [Image description: An LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from an orange to green gradient block. "Introducing" is in white bold text, with a green outline, and sparkles aroudn it. The Black Beetle Health Podcast logo, of a person sipping a cup and icons around them, is in a whit scratchy circle. There is another sparkle next to the circle. "The Black Beetle Health Podcast' is written below it in white bold text with a green outline.] #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #QTBIPOC #QueerPodcast #LGBTPodcast

Have you checked out the first two issues of The Beetle Feed? Published twice a year, its a community-led magazine by and for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. Each edition explores healthcare topics, from mental health to chronic conditions, through self-care tips, interviews and poems. With our experiences of health, wellbeing and equity rarely documented, this is a space for us to tell our stories in our words. Representation matters 🧡 Head to the link in our bio to read the mag. We've also got text-only versions! Already read both editions? Let us know what your favourite piece was in the comments👇 #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #LGBTQBPOC #BPOC #QTIBPOC [Image description: The LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind an orange and yellow gradient block. 'The Beetle Feed' is written in white bold text, with two cut out images below of the first two issues of the magazine and sample pages. 'Swipe to find out more about our magazine' is below it. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer, in a white strip.]

We're hosting a free event with @lgbtpartnership for femmes of colour living with chronic conditions. Date: Monday 6 March Time: 7-9pm Location: Online We’ll talk about pain, fatigue, wellbeing, GI issues and how these impact intimacy. Plus loads more. With or without a diagnosis, you deserve support and to be listened to and this is the place for that 🧡 Click the link in our bio to book your place. This workshop is part of a free series with @lgbtpartnership for #LBTWomensHealthWeek2023! [Image description: LBT+ Women's Health is written in bold white letters on an orange strip in the righthand top corner. Chronic Care Club is written below it, with the information as per the caption. A photo of someone holding three test tubes is on the left of the image, with a cut out heart of people fist bumping in it. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the footer.]

Meet @mix_stress! 🏳️‍🌈 We spoke to Rebecca, founder of @rebecca.never.becky and DJ, about finding balance and what drives her work. Head to the link in our bio for the full interview in issue two of the The Beetle Feed. It also includes a text-only version, too. [Image description: the LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind a purple fading into pink block. A pair of headphones and a decks are at the bottom of the block. A photo of Rebecca is cut out in a circle, with a label reading her name attached to it. 'Rebecca Sa' is below Yuyee's image, with Black Beetle Health's logo in the footer.] #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #LGBTQHistoryMonth #LGBTQDJ #QueerDJ

Get to know the team who make the magic happen at Black Beetle Health 🏳️‍🌈 We have a group of amazingly talented folks behind BBH - and here's your chance to learn more about them! Swipe to read more and drop a comment (or your own fun fact) to say hey. #LGBTHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #MeetTheTeam #LGBTQ #BPOC [Image description: An LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind a green and red gradient box. 'Meet the team' is written in bold white letters. Below are circles featuring photos of the Black Beetle Health team. A big circle is in the middle of Tan, who is talking to the team. The Black Beetle Health logo is in white strip, in the footer.]

In the last issue of The Beetle Feed, we caught up with one of our in-house creatives Yuyee ✨ Yuyee spoke to us about how drawing affirms his trans identity, the comfort in being part of online communities and what brings them joy. Head to the link in our bio for the full magazine - including a text-only version. [Image description: the LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from behind an orange painterly block, with a drawing from Yuyee in the top right hand corner. A photo of Yuyee is cut out in a circle, with a label reading his name attached to it. 'On trans joy and being affirmed through drawing' is below Yuyee's image, with Black Beetle Health's logo in the footer.] #LGBTQHistoryMonth #LGBTPlusHistoryMonth #LGBTHistoryMonth #TransJoy #TransJoyIsResistance

It's #NationalHIVTestingWeek - and you can order a free HIV postal test online! By testing for HIV at home, you send back your test and get your result in around a week. Testing for HIV is quick, easy and confidential. Order your test at the link in our bio. If you have any HIV related questions, we have resources on PrEP and other advice on our website too 🧡 #HIVTestWeek #HIVTesting #HIV #HIVPrevention #ItStartsWithMe

It's LGBT History Month! So, what better time than now to reintroduce ourselves 🏳️‍🌈 We are Black Beetle Health, a public health charity dedicated to promoting health, wellbeing and equality for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour 🧡 Find out more about our work and check out our website at the link in our bio. #LGBTHistory #LGBTQ #LGBTQPride #QTIBPOC [Image description: The LGBTQ+ flag is poking out from a box in a gradient rainbow colour. Black Beetle Health's logo is front and centre, with 'Who We Are' written below in bold letters. Black Beetle's logo, with two white lines on other side, sits below it.]

Email your MP to protect trans rights 🏳️‍⚧️ The UK Government is proposing to challenge the recent Gender Recognition Reform bill passed in Scotland. The reform, which had overwhelming support in Scotland's Government, is a huge step forward for trans rights. Alongside over 100 LGBTQ+ organisations, we've signed a letter from @lgbtconsortium to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The letter calls for the Government "to stop this unnecessary and damaging action immediately and instead recognise the significant positive contribution of trans people across the UK." Swipe to find out what's happening and email your MP now! Link in our bio to act ✊🏽 #TransLivesMatter #BlackTransLivesMatter #TransRightsAreHumanRights #ProtectTransRights [Image description: Faded pink, white and blue background representing the trans flag. 'Protect Trans Rights' is the title, with 'Email Your MP Now' in an orange box below it. Two illustrated hands are holding trans flags. The Black Beetle Health logo is in the footer.]

On your birthing journey and need support? Independent midwives and doulas are some of the folks that can help you! Swipe through to find out the differences between them, so you're ready to pick the right option for you when the time comes. For more reproductive health resources, click the link in our bio under healthcare guides 🧡 Follow us @blackbeetlehealth and tag LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour in the comments so folks know about our guides! [Image description: A gradient orange background with Black Beetle Health's logo in the bottom. 'What's The Difference Between Independent Midwives and Doulas?' is in bold text, with a white box slightly tilted behind 'Independent Midwives and Doulas'] #Healthcare #QueerBirthing #IndependentMidwives #MidWives #Doula #QueerParenting #LGBTHealthcare #LGBTQBPOC

Getting ready for a cervical screening? Swipe through to find out more about them, how regularly they happen, and if your GP will contact you. For more resources, click the link in our bio under healthcare guides 🧡 ---- Follow us @blackbeetlehealth and tag LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour in the comments so folks know about our guides! [Image description: A gradient orange background with Black Beetle Health's logo in the bottom. 'What You Need To Know About Cervical Screenings?' is in bold text, with a white box slightly tilted behind 'Cervical Screenings'] #Healthcare #CervicalScreening #SmearTest #LGBTQBPOC #CervicalCancerAwareness #CervicalCancerAwarenessMonth

EVENT: Manchester folks, this one's for you! We're running a 2 hour workshop with @lgbtfdn on reproductive health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ BPoC. 📅 Thursday 19 January 🕖 6-8pm 🏢 Whitworth Locke, Civic Quarter 74 Princess Street Manchester M1 6JD Centred around healthcare and pregnancy, the session will take you on a journey of understanding what healthcare looks like/should look like during pregnancy and post-partum for both the birthing person and their partner(s). Swipe to see some of the topics we'll be covering in this interactive session. And click the link in our bio to book your FREE place! --- [Image description: Four different images with a LGBTQ+ flag peaking out from the background and white box overlayed, saying 'LGBTQ+ Paths to Parenthood' with illustrated figures on either side of the title. Each image has a different topic, 'Are you Ready', 'Make a Plan and Take Action', 'Look After Your Mental Health and Wellbeing' and 'Prepare Your Relationships For Parenthood'. Photos of LGBTQ+ BPoC people are featured throughout the slides.]

Not sure what emergency contraception (EC) is available to you? Swipe through to find out what options are out there and where you can access EC from. For more reproductive health resources, click the link in our bio under healthcare guides 🧡 Follow us @blackbeetlehealth and tag LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour in the comments so folks know about our guides! [Image description: A gradient orange background with Black Beetle Health's logo in the bottom. 'What Emergency Contraception is Available?' is in bold text, with a white box slightly tilted behind 'Emergency Contraception'] #Healthcare #Contraception #EmergencyContraception #GUMClinics #LGBTHealthcare #LGBTQBPOC

STI symptoms can show up in different ways - and it's important to know what to look out for! Swipe through to see symptoms that may mean you have an STI. If you're presenting any of these, make sure to reach out to your doctor or local sexual health clinic. And bookmark this post if you need it for future ref. ---- For more sexual health resources, click the link in our bio under healthcare guides 🧡 Follow us @blackbeetlehealth and tag LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour in the comments so folks know about our guides. ---- [Image description: A gradient orange background with Black Beetle Health's logo in the bottom. 'Symptoms That May Mean You Have an STI?' is in bold text, with a white box slightly tilted behind] #Healthcare #STIs #SexualHealth #GUMClinics #LGBTHealthcare #LGBTQBPOC

Did you know we have a guides on managing chronic illnesses and conditions? Our resources cover healthcare for LGBTQ+ BPoC on diabetes, hypertension, sickle cell anaemia and more. You can also download a poster of our guides for your community group, clinic or surgery. All our posters have QR codes you can scan, which take you to one of our healthcare guides. For more chronic illnesses resources, click the link in our bio under healthcare guides 🧡 Follow us @blackbeetlehealth and tag LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour in the comments so folks know about our guides! [Image description: A gradient orange background with the title 'Chronic Illnesses and Conditions' in bold text, highlighted in a darker orange. The cover of Black Beetle Health's Chronic Illnesses and Conditions guide sits below it. On the left hand side is a circular shape reading: 'What are chronic illnesses and conditions, how to manage them and support for LGBTQ+ BPoC.' An illustrated hand holds a phone. Black Beetle Health's logo is in the bottom footer of the image.] #Healthcare #ChronicIllness #DiabitiesSupport #Hypertension #LGBTHealthcare #LGBTQBPOC

And that's a wrap for 2022 🌟 As we get ready to sign off until January, we're celebrating all the work that's happened in the last 12 months. (Hint: we've been busy!) 👇 1. Published four new healthcare guides 2. Released three new reports 3. Spread awareness of our resources and guides at events 4. Created downloadable posters for clinics, surgeries, and community spaces 5. Launched our first-ever magazine 6. And launched our podcast series We have so much love for the team at Black Beetle Health who have been working super hard behind the scenes! We were sad to say goodbye to folks moving on, but had the joy of welcoming new people to our mission. A BIG thank you to everyone who has come on the BBH journey with us too. We wouldn't be here without all of your love and ongoing support. If you want to continue supporting our work, you can. Click the link in our bio to chip in with a donation. We'll be back in a few weeks, ready to take on the New Year 🧡 Image descriptions in alt text.

Today on the Black Beetle Health Podcast🎙 Host Elliss (she/her) @ellisspotato talks with Jass (she/they) founder of the organisation 'Intersectional Glam' and a member of 'The House of Spice'. The two discuss their experiences of living with chronic pain, fashionable accessibility items and how you can find the joy in your trauma. Link to episode in bio! 🧡

A massive thank you to @lgbtconsortium for awarding us £25,000 🧡 This funding is part of their LGBT+ Futures: Equity Fund, supported by @tnlcommunityfund. As a small charity, we rely on funding like this, alongside donations, to continue our work in the community. We appreciate everyone who has supported our journey so far - and it doesn't stop here! We've got plenty of plans for 2023, so watch this space ✨ Graphic designed by @lgbtconsortium. [Image description in alt text] #LGBTFutures #LGTQBPOC #QTIBPOC #Healthcare #Wellbeing #LGBTQCommunity #Funding #CharityFunding

Disabled LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour face multiple barriers at work. To address the exclusion of disabled people in the workplace, we ran a scheme for folks to learn more about their industries and have a personal access assistant to support them. Our report explores our learnings from the scheme and accessibility suggestions. A huge thank you to @metrocharity for the funding to make this happen! We hope this report can serve as a catalyst for great change and making accessible spaces for all 🧡 It can sometimes be challenging on knowing where to start – so do reach out to us if you need any support or want to chat more about our learnings. Click the link in our bio to view the report. Image descriptions in alt text. #Disability #DisabledJustice #DisabledRights #Accessibility #LGBTQBPOC #LGBTQ #BPOC #Healthcare #LGBTQCommunity

#worldaidsday #stigma #HIV #remember #peopleofcolour #lgbtq

It's #PrEPAwarenessWeek! If you're looking for more information about PrEP and how to access support, check out our HIV PrEP guide. All our resources are for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour 🧡 We also have posters for your surgery, clinic, or community space to print. Scan the code on our PrEP poster and you'll be taken to advice and support from our guide. Click the link in our bio to download our HIV PrEP guide and poster! #PrEP #HIV #Healthcare #SexualHealth #LGBTBPOC #QueerHealthcare #LGBTHealthcare

We're still vibing from our team social at @the_proud_trust on Saturday  🧡 As we work remotely, we don't get to see each other in person as much as we'd like.  So, it's a big moment when we are together - and we had an absolutely brilliant time! A huge thanks to @lgbtconsortium for the funds to make this happen and to The Proud Trust for hosting us.  We can't wait to link up with the team again! (And missed all those that couldn't make it too.) Photos: by one of our amazing designers, Iosif.

Issue two of our magazine, The Beetle Feed, is here! 🎉 In this edition, we explore what it means to dream and let our minds wander. Here's a sneak peak at what's inside ☁️ Top tips on getting to sleep at night. @rebecca.never.becky on balancing your dreams and ambitions alongside your wellbeing. @blackopspoetry poem, Buzzwords. @ellisspotato explores how anti-depressants can impact your dreams. And plenty more, including updates on what's been happening at Black Beetle Health. Swipe right to find out more and download the issue at the link in our bio. We can't wait for you to read it 🧡 Alt text on images. #Magazine #LGBTQCommunity #Healthcare #MentalHealth #ChronicIllness #LGBTQBPOC

On this NEW episode of The Black Beetle Health Podcast. 🎙 Host Elliss (She/Her) @ellisspotato sits down with Sasha (She/They) @sasha_of_love_ a transgender woman and member of Ketts Rebellion, a transgender activism community. Sasha talks deeply about how coming out affected relationships, transitioning in an all boys school and how the school system creates barriers for those who just want to be themselves. Link to the episode in bio!

We took things global and travelled to Brussels for the #MindTheGap2022 HIV and Migration Summit! 🌍 It was an honour to be invited and have the opportunity to talk about our work at Black Beetle Health. We had really insightful conversations and caught up with amazing folks in the community. The days flew by! Thanks for having us @africadvocacy. Representation matters 🧡 #Healthcare #MentalHealth #LGBTQ #BPOC

Today on the Black Beetle Health Podcast. 🎙 Elliss (She/Her) @ellisspotato talks to Mohammed (He/Him) from @queermuslimsofmanchester. Elliss asks questions around stigmas and religion and about the journey to becoming confident and comfortable within the community Mohammed is a part of. They also discuss how reconnecting with yourself can overcome hardships and how spending quality time with others can create an unbreakable bond. This one is definitely worth a listen! (Link to episode in bio!)

We were at @lgbtfdn's Pride in Practice conference this week! #PiPCon2022 is a space for healthcare professionals and LGBTQ+ organisations to share experiences, learnings and discuss inclusion for LGBTQ+ communities. Our amazing Development and Comms Manager, @ellisspotato, led a workshop which explored wellbeing and equality for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. @emi_voinea, one of our fabulous interns, said about the day: "It was a joy to attend the 2022 Pride in Practice Conference with Black Beetle Health! I got to absorb all of the knowledge [about LGBTQ+ healthcare], as well as be in charge of our table. A truly wonderful experience 🤩" Thanks to the @lgbtfdn for having us 🧡 #PiPCon2022 Alt text on images. Video description (slide 2): Black Beetle Health's table at the Pride in Practice Conference is filled with healthcare resources for LGBTQ+ BPoC. The camera pans out to view the rest of the room with other people sitting at tables talking.

Have you struggled finding healthcare support for LGBTQ+ BPoC? We've got you covered! 🌟 Our signposting guide is filled with organisations, groups and charities who provide support and advice for LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour. It includes support around sexual health and reproductive health, mental health, chronic illnesses and community. We also have a poster of the guide for your clinic, surgery or community space. Print it out and scan the QR code to be taken to the signposting resource 🤳 Head to the link in our bio to download the guide and poster! #healthcare #lgbtqhealthcare #mentalhealth #reproductivehealth #healthcareuk #healthcaresupport #transhealthcare #queerhealthcare #chronicillness #lgbtqcommunity

Have you checked out our sexual health guides for LGBTQ+ BPoC? They're filled with loads of support and info about sexual health. Our resources cover: - Understanding STIs - HIV Harm Reduction - What is PrEP - U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable) You can download all our guides as posters for your community space. Print out the poster, scan code, and you'll be taken to a sexual health resource! Alt text on images. #sexualhealthawareness #sexualhealthawarenessweek #sexualhealthmatters #sexeducation #lgbtcommunity #lgbtqbpoc

Did you know we have a mental health guide for LGBTQ+ BPoC? The resource covers everything from recognising depression and anxiety, to support for anyone struggling in our communities. You can also download a poster of our guide for your community group, clinic or surgery. All our posters have QR codes you can scan, which take you to one of our healthcare guides 🤳 LGBTQ+ Black and People of Colour's mental health matters! Link in our bio for mental health guide and poster 🧡 Alt text on images. #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #lgbtcommunity #queerpoc

VOLUNTEER ALERT: We're recruiting three Trustees! 🎉 Are you passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ Communities of Colour and fighting the racism, stigma, and misinformation that negatively affect their health outcomes? Then join our board and make a difference. We're looking for 💼 - Chair of Trustees - Trustee Treasurer - Trustee Secretary Link in our bio to find out more and apply. If you have any questions, email nadya-sameeh@blackbeetlehealth.co.uk. We'll be interviewing as applicants come in - so get yours in now! Alt text on images. #charityjobs #trustee #trusteejobs #volunteerjobs #lgbtuk

Introducing our new guide - Understanding STIs! As part of our sexual health resources, we've created this guide to provide LGBTQ+ BPoC with information and support on STIs. The guide covers: - What STIs are there - How to test - What protection and prevention support is available Head to the link in our bio to download now. And let us know what you think!