Rankin: Switchboard becomes a safe space across the UK

The UK is going through a period of intense intolerance. Hatred is on the increase. Much of it is racial but homophobia is prevalent too. An analysis from The Guardian last month revealed that homophobic hate crimes have more than doubled since 2014 across England and Wales and transphobic attacks have trebled over the same period.

LGBT+ Helpline, Switchboard is a safe space in all corners of the country and creative agency, Rankin, has launched the three-part, national campaign to help spread the word.

Phase 1 of the campaign, which launches on July 6 to coincide with Pride London, will cover The UK with ads on buses, billboards, in magazines and more. The campaign will include some of the questions the Switchboard volunteers are most commonly asked, such as “How can I come out if I’m not sure what I identify as?” and “Where can I meet people like me?”.

Switchboard is a helpline that operates via phone, email and instant message, on a wider national scale. The campaign aims to spread the message that Switchboard is a Safe Space for anyone to get in touch with a like-minded volunteer and discuss topics relating to LGBT+ life with no judgement and in total confidentiality. The campaign wants especially to reach people who live in areas with low representation or high levels of hate crime, making sure that nobody in the LGBT+ community needs to feel alone or isolated.

Natasha Walker, co-chair of Switchboard, commented, “In another five years, Switchboard will be 50 and we don’t want to see a doubling again of these deeply troubling figures. With increased levels of isolation and loneliness, the need for Switchboard is ever-present. It’s these people that we want to reach with the Safe Space campaign, showing that we’re a national service focused on supporting those who need it most. The Safe Space is all about creating a confidential, non-judgemental atmosphere where someone can speak to a volunteer who’s a member of the LGBT+ community and voice whatever’s on their mind. Whether they’re calling about an issue that’s affecting them directly or someone else they care about, we’re here 10am to 10pm, 365 days a year.

Jordan Rossi, director & producer at Rankin, added, “Switchboard is such a fantastic organisation, charity and concept and we are in awe of the work they do. We want to spread their reach and positive impact across the UK — beyond London and out to the people who may feel isolated, alienated and alone. As an agency we’ll always be proud representatives of the LGBT+ community and nothing gets our creative juices flowing more than a charitable cause. This campaign marks the first part of a three-part collaboration with Switchboard, with more exciting phases of activation to come, so watch this (Safe) Space.”