Okay...so many of you may not have heard of Spectrum, or if you do, scratch your head when it comes to what they do... well, we're here to try to put that right.

Spectrum acts as an umbrella to LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans) communities and businesses and acts as a major supporter and voice for the LGBT community in general. Originally borne of the "Count Me In" Survey in 2001 investigating the lives and needs of the LGBT Community in Brighton & Hove, there were enough issues and requirements identified to put together a community strategy. Through funding Specrtrum is abel to share information and communicate to other organisations on behalf of the Brighton & Hove LGBT community.

Minorities within minorities often get sidelined, and therefore LGBT individuals who may have mental health issues, are disable, or are black get forgotten, or boxed into another category completely. Think of a Venn Diagram and you may get the picture of cross-over needs that Spectrum aims to address.

In terms of communicating issues to the statutory bodies, Spectrum is right in there. Open discussions with Police and Local Government are already seeing a few of those familiar barriers lowered. Although Spectrum is also lobbying on the LGBT community's behalf, don't be put off if you don't see yourself as particularly political. Spectrum is interested in YOUR view, and collating these views into a more tangible representation of the issues that need addressing.

So, how do you get involved? Visit the website, contact them by email. Find out how you can put a little bit back into a community that a lot is taken out of... a lot taken for granted. Keep an eye on the REALBrighton listings for up and coming events - chances for you to get your point across and to find out about the people and community organisations that make up LGBT Brighton.