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Singapore is still a work in progress when it comes to LGBTQ+ acceptance. While neighbouring countries like Thailand have legally accepted same-sex marriages, Singapore still faces occasional anti-LGBT attacks and prejudice – even during Pride month.
It seems like every time the community takes two steps forward, an incident arises that remind us that there’s still a long way to go until we truly get equality rights. Which is no surprise why there are still plenty of LGBTQ+ individuals and youth afraid to come out, be themselves and feel accepted.
Turning to queer-friendly spaces and communities is a great way for people to seek advice and refuge for whatever struggles they may be facing. But where should you start? If you or someone you know are in need of help, check out this list of LGBTQ communities, safe spaces and hotlines that you can consider.
1. Pelangi Pride Center
“Pelangi” is Malay for “rainbow”, and Pelangi Pride Center is a community space that has been around for over 20 years. Not only does it have a resource centre and library for LGBTQ reading materials, but they also conduct regular events to engage the queer community. Look out for exciting activities that you can sign up for on a monthly basis, such as mental health awareness talks and secondhand book sales.
Address: 1 Commonwealth Ln, #02-02 One Commonwealth, Singapore 149544
Opening Hours: Saturdays, 2pm to 6pm.
Contact: 8525 2643
Website: www.pelangipridecentre.org
2. Oogachaga
2024 marks a huge milestone for Oogachaga – the first LGBTQ+ organisation in Singapore turns 25 years old. From their humble roots in 1999, the community space has continuously played home to many queer individuals, and provided a range of services ranging from professional face-to-face counselling to educational workshops for corporations.
Address: 57B Pagoda St, Singapore 059216
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm. Closed on weekends.
Contact: 6226 2002
WhatsApp Chat (via text only): 8592 0609
Website: https://oogachaga.com/
3. The T Project
The transgender community in Singapore tends to be overlooked and marginalised. That’s where The T Project comes in. Singapore’s first and only social service for the community provides a shelter for the homeless, a community centre for like-minded individuals to bond, as well as counselling for trans-related issues.
Beyond giving back to the community, they have also launched a fundraising book in the past and conduct regular corporate talks and workshops for external companies.
Address: 7 Race Course Ln, #03-01, Singapore 218734
Opening Hours: By appointment only
Contact: 8181 7584
Website: https://www.thetprojectsg.org/
4. Project X
A startling fact that is unbeknownst to many is that violence, abuse and discrimination is actually commonplace towards sex workers in Singapore. To protect this community, Project X was formed to not just be a safe space for victims, but also connect the community, offer counselling services, provide sexual health screening, as well as file legal cases to protect victims.
If you want to be involved but not sure of where to start, you can donate or find out how to volunteer at their website.
Address: 155 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208528
Opening Hours: 1pm to 9pm Mondays to Fridays. Closed on weekends.
Contact: 9060 9906
Website: https://theprojectx.org/
5. Gayhealth.sg
It’s vital for the LGBTQ community to be educated on sex, as well as receive help or assistance for sex-related health causes without the fear of judgement. Gayhealth.sg is part of Action For Aids, and is Singapore’s resource for men to get anonymously tested, as well as educated on sexual health and safe sex practices such as contraceptives and PrEP.
With the goal of ending HIV by 2030, the organisation also provides a community for people to form connections and be involved with on-ground activations to spread awareness.
Address: 9 Kelantan Ln, Singapore 208628
Contact: 6254 0212
Website: https://www.gayhealth.sg/
6. Transbefrienders
It can be a lonely journey finding yourself, especially for the LGTBQ community. Youths might face challenges in forming connections with peers, which is why Transbefrienders is a great way for transgender and gender-diverse individuals to find their tribe.
Beyond helping to develop friendships, the community also conducts volunteering initiatives, provides educational programmes as well as hold book clubs and telegram channels to better impart information within the youths and beyond.
Address: 803 King George’s Ave, Singapore 200803
Opening Hours: 11am to 7pm Tuesdays to Fridays, 11am to 8pm Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Website: https://www.transbefrienders.com/
7. Proud Spaces
If you’re ever in search of community activities with a queer crowd, look no further than Proud Spaces. Just as their name suggests, the organisation is an LGBTQ+-friendly place for both friends and strangers to gather together alongside events ranging from yoga to storytelling sessions and board game nights.
Adulting affairs such as focus groups and financial planning can also be discussed safely here, with workshops regularly lined up as well. Stay updated with them on their social media platforms to know when their latest events are happening!
Address: 243 Alexandra Rd, #05-03, Singapore 159932
Opening Hours: 12pm to 6pm Tuesdays to Fridays, 10am to 2pm Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Contact: 8033 7912
Website: https://proudspaces.sg/
8. Congregaytion
A subsidiary service from Oogachaga, Congregaytion is an online community portal for LGBTQ individuals in Singapore. Additionally, they also provide resources for topics ranging from suicide prevention to inspirational stories.
Parents and family members of LGBTQ individuals who wish to understand them better and navigate their coming out can also rely on Congregaytion for support through guided talks and knowledge sharing.
Address: 57B Pagoda St, Singapore 059216
Contact: 6224 9373
Website: https://www.congregaytion.com/
These communities help make Singapore a more inclusive society
It’s heartening to know that in spite of many Singaporeans’ largely traditional beliefs and culture, there are still sources and spaces that aim to assist the LGBTQ community to feel at home. With an increasing presence in society, these resources will let individuals know that there are indeed places that they can turn to for help, which will allow them to not feel so alone.
Another option for those needing support is A Space Between, a co-working space that is also home to LGBTQ+ friendly therapists and counsellors who can provide professional advice in a safe environment. Besides finding suitable help, A Space Between also shares advice on therapy and LGBTQ issues through online blog articles, as well as hold community events.
