You Are Loved to hold a launch night of panel discussions and performances at Arch Clapham

You Are Loved, a new community interest company dedicated to supporting gay, bi, and queer men, is to host a launch event of panel discussions and performances at Arch Clapham on Friday, November 22. BOOK TICKETS

You Are Loved (YAL), a new community interest company dedicated to supporting gay, bi, and queer men, launches with a special event on November 22nd at Arch Clapham. Founded by Marc Svensson, YAL creates a safe, supportive space where members of the LGBTQ+ community can connect and share openly.

The evening will feature a panel discussion on mental health in the queer community, with speakers including Owain Evans (Big Gay Out), Alvin Hansen (Homoparody), Jaroh Soh (Voda), and acclaimed writer-performer Alexis Gregory, who will also present an excerpt from his new play, Smoke. The event will conclude with socialising and networking.

Founded in response to rising suicide and drug-related deaths among gay, bi, and queer men, YAL aims to offer a proactive, community-centred alternative to traditional mental health services. “As a community, we need to confront the stigma and shame associated with suicide and drug-related deaths,” said founder Marc Svensson. “YAL represents not just a lifeline for those in crisis but also a potential blueprint for addressing the broader suicide epidemic nationwide.”

In Spring 2025, YAL will launch peer support groups, modelled after Alcoholics Anonymous, offering a safe space for mental health support, community connection, and bereavement.