The Bournemouth-based LGBT+ charity is to be able to continue to offer its virtual service thanks to funding from Talbot Village Trust.

The trust’s donation of £4,000 will enable Space Youth Project to fund IT for virtual support groups and sessions.

Space Youth Project will now be able to purchase laptops and other peripherals such as headsets, software licences and the necessary data to upskill team members less experienced with IT. The Space Youth Project’s support was previously offered in person, and the access to this equipment enabled the charity to deliver support over Zoom, Instagram and Facebook Messenger, as well as virtual weekly group sessions.

Helen Walsh, chief executive officer of Space Youth Project, said: “We are still finding that young people are feeling very isolated, scared, and unsure about their lives. Being able to continue to offer our guidance just as effectively virtually helps them come to terms with what the future may hold.”

Space Youth Project works closely with LGBT+ young people up to the age of 25 to offer support and facilitate freedom of expression, encourage positive self-esteem, and bring a sense of community.

Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, 12th Earl of Shaftesbury and chairman of Talbot Village Trust, said: “Before the pandemic, so many of us took access to technology such as computers for granted in our everyday lives. Seeing how our donation has created such a lifeline to many LGBT+ youth in Dorset hits home how lucky we are to have access to these amenities. We’re so proud of all the hard work Space Youth Project has done; they’re truly a life-saving organisation.”

To apply for funding from the Talbot Village Trust, visit www.talbotvillagetrust.org to submit an online application.

The trust meets biannually and is accepting applications for funding from both previous and new applicants in the area before the trustees meet in spring 2022.