Solo mum brings her role modelling programme for LGBTI teens in London home to Christchurch

May 11, 2018

Suran Dickson was so moved by a father and son suicide in London attributed to homophobia she launched Diversity Role Models.

A gay woman who started a group role modelling for LGBTI teens in London because she was so moved by the death of a father and son, is now on a mission to help the young rainbow community in her hometown of Christchurch.

TVNZ1's Seven Sharp reported Suran Dickson was living in London when the sudden death of a stranger, British teen Dominic Crouch, changed the course of her life, as Dominic's father, who Suran had struck up a connection with, also died 18 months later.

A list of places to get help is at the bottom of this story.

"Just terribly sad. I always say that's a family of four cut in half due to homophobia," Ms Dickson said.

She was so moved she quit teaching and vowed to stand up. And within six months Diversity Role Models was born.

"I just thought if kids have no role models - teachers who are who are openly gay - how do they ever get over their prejudice?" Ms Dickson told Daybreak TV in the UK at the time.

The launch of her charity, which runs workshops on tackling homophobic bullying, was held in the House of Commons, with Theresa May attending.

Ms Dickson believes role modelling is "really crucial" because although we've come a long way in New Zealand, the likes of Australian rugby star Israel Folau with his anti-gay social media posts reopen old wounds.

"If the outcome of your words could cause additional harm to a group of people and you've got a platform, perhaps it might be better not to say it - even if it's your belief," she said.

Ms Dickson is a single mother and says gender stereotyping is as bad and damaging as homophobia.

Meanwhile, Seven Sharp reported news that in November New Zealand's first ever LGBTI awards will be held in the footsteps of the UK and Australia.  

Ms Dickson said the awards "creates a tipping point where everyone else realises actually it is time we stood up and celebrate positive work and we're not bystanders to bullying". 

Need to talk? 1737 – Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor

Lifeline – Free call 0800 LIFELINE (543 354), or free text HELP (4357)
Youthline
- 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email  talk@youthline.co.nz

Samaritans – 0800 726 666

Healthline   – 0800 611 116

Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 or www.depression.org.nz

The Lowdown : A website to help young New Zealanders recognise and understand depression or anxiety. www.thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626

SPARX.org.nz  –  Online e-therapy tool provided by the University of Auckland that helps young people learn skills to deal with feeling down, depressed or stressed

OUTLine NZ – 0800 688 5463 for support related to sexual orientation or gender identity 

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