Twenty miles outside of Liverpool stands a caravan that's intended to provide a safe haven for LGBT+ people.
The Michael Causer Foundation secured funding and access to the caravan as part of their ongoing mission to provide safe spaces and accommodation for LGBT+ young people in the North West.
A trustee for the charity announced their new caravan scheme at a vigil in memory of Michael Causer on Monday, August 2.
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The caravan, which is based at an undisclosed location 90 minutes outside of Liverpool by car or public transport, will provide a safe haven for young LGBT+ people seeking respite away from the city.
Steve Macfarlane, chair of the Michael Causer Foundation, told the ECHO: “Any young man, woman or otherwise who feels the need to get out of the city for a few days can get in touch with us.
“We will put them up in the caravan for however long they may need it.
“We want to create safe spaces for young LGBT+ people and maintain them, to make sure those people have safe accommodation.”
Mr Macfarlane pointed to the recent spike in anti-LGBT attacks and hate crimes across the city throughout summer.
He added: “All of us have got some work to do to remind ourselves these attacks still happen.”
The chairman questioned whether the COVID-19 pandemic is a factor in contributing to the spike of attacks. He said: “If there is one thing we would like to understand, it’s: why now? Is it some kind of escape or release from lockdown? Is it that school settings aren’t teaching people to eradicate discrimination?”
The Michael Causer Foundation was founded by Marie and Mike Causer following the murder of their son in 2008.
Michael, an 18-year-old trainee hairdresser from Whiston, was attacked in his sleep at a house party in Liverpool and subsequently died in hospital following brain surgery.
The charity works within the local community to create and maintain safe spaces for LGBT young people, while promoting equality and diversity in schools, the workplace and beyond.
On Monday, August 2, the charity held its annual vigil in honour of Michael and other victims of violent anti-LGBT hate crime. The event in Temple Square marked the 13th anniversary of the Whiston teenager's death.
Mr Macfarlane added the Michael Causer Foundation is always looking for volunteers and donors, should people be inspired to help their cause.
He said: “We need help outreaching to schools, to workplaces and elsewhere to make sure they are taking steps to educate young people and even broader about hate crime and how we can help prevent it.”
Elsewhere, the Michael Causer Foundation engages in an annual daisy planting campaign. “Daisies were Michael’s favourite flowers,” Mr. Macfarlane said. “It’s a good way to start conversations about Michael and the foundation.”
Donations can be made to the Michael Causer Foundation via their website.
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