With long-time coordinator Jamie Burford finishing his stint at Queer Support last week, Neill Ballantyne has been appointed to take over the role.
Neill has been involved in Queer Support for two years, starting out as a peer supporter. While the eventual plan might be to revolutionise social justice as we know it, Neill pointed out last week, “I’ve been here three days, I’m sticking to the poster for now.”
Along with his experience working in student politics and youth support, Neill has an openly Christian background. He comments, “I grew up with a very liberal and open religious background; I’m trying to come to this position as secularly as I can.”
Neill’s work will be channelled into promoting and coordinating Queer Support’s many initiatives, including a multimedia library, workshops and seminars, sexual health information, free condoms and confidential chats for anyone who wants one.
On the pressure of filling Jamie’s shoes, Neill was relaxed. “Queer Support has an established purpose, which is valid and useful. I’m happy to work my way into the very big shoes that he left.”
Big queer boots to fill
