Formed in 2007 to promote social inclusion, mutual support and recognition of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people in Essex. We provide support groups accross the majority of Mid, South & West Essex along with health and support information provided on our website. We also act as a hate crime reporting centre for Essex Police and we received an award from Essex High Sheriffs' in 2011 for our contribution to hate crime in Essex.

We have seen a steady increase in the number of people contacting us for support. We now provide a specialist meeting space for LGBT people in Chelmsford, Basildon, Maldon and Epping togther with a Mens' project in Thurrock. Each year several thousand people access our health and support information online. Our volunteers work 1:1 with victims of hate crime and referals from Essex Police & victim support. We are currently undertaking LGBT surveys for Basildon & Epping Forest Councils.

Around half of people contacting EGM reported being socially isolated or did not know where to go for support and advice. Service users have reported a positive impact on their quality of life and feel more confident when accessing mainstream services. Our on-line hate crime reporting and the work we do with LGBT communities increases confidence in the police. We are a volunteer led organisation with minimal overheads; donations go straight to supporting delivery of front line services.