**EPISODE CONTENT ADVICE** This discussion covers child abuse and rape.
This week we are tumbling around the room with delight as our guest is none other than Colm O’Gorman. Colm is the former director of Amnesty International Ireland, founder and former director of One in Four and current Global Director of Community Engagement at the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative. And in a whole other side of his life, Colm is also a food columnist with The Irish Examiner.
In this episode, Colm shares his story of abuse and rape by an Irish priest when he was a child. The subject matter is heavy and serious but Colm was so open and eloquent and we are so grateful to him for talking to us. There is also joyful side to this week’s ATWI80G too as Colm shares his gay anthem with us and sets out what his dream meal would be.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this episode or just need someone to talk to, we’ve put together some numbers and resources you or someone you love may find helpful.
RESOURCES
Beyond Belief by Colm O’Gorman
LGBT Ireland - 1800 929 539 or email info@lgbt.ie
Outhouse - LGBT Lesbian Bisexual Resource Centre
Belong to Youth Service - Supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans Young People in Ireland -(01) 670 6223 (Monday-Friday from 9am-1pm & 2pm-5pm), 24/7 Anonymous Text Support. Text LGBTI+ to 086 1800 280 anytime when you need support. Standard SMS rates may apply. A trained volunteer will listen to you and help you think more clearly, enabling you to know that you can take the next step to feel better.
Samaritans - They provide confidential non-judgmental support, 24 hours a day for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. Call 116 123.
