Empowering Diversity, Enriching Lives
We are here to offer you a warm and understanding space as you navigate through the challenges that you face. We know that coming out and dealing with family expectations can be tough, but fear not! Our team is made up of individuals who have lived through similar experiences, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
We understand the importance of finding your true self and celebrating your uniqueness. Through our lived experiences and heartfelt guidance, we will help you discover who you are and embrace your authentic self with pride.
Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on personal growth, or a helping hand in pursuing your dreams, we are here for you. At Behind the Curtain, we believe in the power of community, and we are committed to empowering you to live your best life.
Our Story
Behind The Curtain (BTC) CIC was born from a powerful vision from founder Ross Jameson-Laffey. With his background in supporting businesses and his personal struggles as a young gay man, Ross set out to create a safe haven for individuals from all walks of life.
Since 2007, Ross has dedicated himself to helping people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Seeing these individuals flourish brings him and his team immense joy and satisfaction. Together with his partner Lee, they have fostered 11 children, breaking the norms as the first same-sex couple to foster in South Tyneside and Sunderland. Their goal was to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment for these children, offering an alternative family setup that goes beyond the traditional norms.
One of their most meaningful experiences during fostering was supporting a young trans boy. In the time he spent with Ross and Lee, they provided a space where he could truly be himself, fully embraced and celebrated for being himself.
Behind the Curtain's mission is to benefit the LGBTQI+ community, providing a range of support and wellbeing activities tailored to their specific needs. Our offerings include social interactions that blend both traditional and unconventional scenes, educational and entrepreneurial workshops to promote self-awareness and address skills mismatch, helping individuals build resilience and pursue positive career paths.
The activities provided by Behind the Curtain bring together people from diverse backgrounds, promoting healthier lifestyles, family cohesion, and community enhancement.
Ross and his team are committed to making a positive impact and empowering others through Behind the Curtain. Together, we will create a brighter and more inclusive future for everyone in our community.
Our support and wellbeing activities are carefully crafted to provide a safe and nurturing environment. From meditation and grounding exercises to embracing nature's healing power, we aim to help individuals find inner peace and foster a sense of harmony within themselves.
- ross jameson-laffey
How we help
We understand the unique challenges and personal barriers you may face on your journey. Our core support is centred around providing you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and flourish as your authentic selves.
We offer both outdoor and indoor interactive workshops that are designed exclusively for you. These workshops are not just educational; they are interactive and engaging, providing a safe space for you to express yourself freely. Through these workshops, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in various aspects of life.
Our wellness retreats are another powerful resource we offer. These retreats are designed to be a rejuvenating and a warm experience. Surrounded by a supportive and understanding community, you will have the opportunity to explore your personal growth, overcome challenges, and embrace your authenticity with open arms.
We understand that sometimes it can be challenging to share your thoughts and emotions openly. That's why we offer confidential 1-2-1 support. We are here to lend a listening ear, share their own life experiences, and provide guidance without judgment.
You are not alone in your journey. Behind the Curtain is a place where you can feel understood, accepted, and celebrated for who you truly are. Our support is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you can grow and flourish as your authentic self.
support us
Behind the Curtain is a leading LGBTQI+ Community Interest Company, committed to helping support members of the LGBTQI+ Community.
Our goal is to empower the LGBTQI+ community, providing the resources and assistance necessary to thrive and make a positive impact on lives. Together, we'll create a society that cherishes diversity and celebrates the unique journey of each individual, remove social inequality, and enable fulfilling, safe, and healthy lives.
Your support is vital in continuing our crucial work in this sector. Join us in creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Together, we advocate for better care standards and empower our community. Stand with us to build compassionate and empowering support for our community.
Partner with us
ehind the Curtain is able to work with organisations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to deliver outstanding and mutually beneficial partnerships that deliver clear business benefits whilst making a difference to the LGBTQI+ Community in the North East.
fundraise with us
From organising your own event, taking part in one of ours, or leaving a gift in your Will, there are lots of ways to fundraise for us.
Philanthropy
Philanthropic individuals and organisations are key to BTC CIC and its mission. Your support enables us to deliver projects and programmes to the highest standard, and makes you at the centre of leading the way for improved social care.
If you would like to be part of this, either as an individual, or through a trust or foundation we are here to support you. Developing long term relationships is key for us, so we can make real impact.
"It's acceptance and love that paves the road to equality."
Contact us now
E-Mail: info@behindthecurtain.org.uk