Being female and gay in Yorkshire can sometimes be a lonely existence. Gay bars proliferate around Lower Briggate in Leeds, for example, but their population is overwhelmingly male. Unless you promote yourself on internet dating sites, it might sometimes seem as if there is no way to meet other gay women.


So social groups, like the recently formed Out in Yorkshire, become very important. Meeting once a month in a quiet room above the hubbub of Blayd’s bar in Leeds, it’s a place for gay women to meet others and socialise. Friendships are made, outings and other events are organised, and when there are special events such as Gay Pride you can show up there with half a dozen of your mates.


Out in Yorkshire is a new group in Yorkshire for lesbians, and for other non-heterosexual women too. Bisexual and transgender women sometimes get a cool welcome from lesbians, so Out in Yorkshire has founded itself on the principles of inclusivity and diversity. It’s there for all gay women, whether lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or of any other non-heterosexual sexuality. If a woman wants to bring a male partner or gay-friendly friend, this too is welcomed. There is also the opportunity to bring children along to some of the events.


Out in Yorkshire also aims to be a friendly, safe place for women who are questioning their sexuality. That first foray can be very difficult - the L-Word can be very daunting, and it’s a relief to see just a bunch of normal, cheerful women sitting around a couple of tables having a drink.


Out in Yorkshire meets at 8.30 pm on the first Thursday of every month upstairs at Blayd’s bar on Lower Briggate in Leeds. The group also arranges other events at least once a month, such as picnics, walks, meals out, and going along to regional gay nights. For more information, check out facebook.com/Out.in.Yorkshire or email  outinyorkshire@yahoo.co.uk.