GLADD cannot and does not maintain lists of gay/lesbian-friendly doctors and dentists

GLADD firmly believes that all patients deserve to be cared for by dentists and doctors who are non-judgemental in their attitudes and beliefs, particularly with regard to sexual orientation. Our position is backed up by the General Medical Council: "You must not allow your views about a patient's lifestyle, culture, beliefs, race, colour, sex, sexuality, age, social status or perceived economic worth to prejudice the treatment you give or arrange". The General Dental Council has similar guidelines for dentists. We believe that, by maintaining a list of doctors and dentists who claim to be LesBiGay friendly, then we are condoning the actions of those who are not. Thus we do not maintain such a list.

All patients deserve to be cared for by good doctors and dentists and part of being a good doctor or dentist is being able to care effectively and appropriately for lesbian and gay patients.

The Government's NHS Plan states as one of it's core principals that: The NHS will shape its services around the needs and preferences of individual patients, their families and carers. It goes on to say that: The NHS of the 21st Century must be responsive to the needs of different groups and individuals within society, and challenge discrimination on the grounds of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability and sexuality. The NHS will treat patients as individuals, with respect for their dignity. Patients and citizens will have a greater say in the NHS, and the provision of services will be centred on patients' needs.

  • The London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard, who hold an enormous catalogue of information: 020 7837 7324.
  • Your local gay and lesbian switchboard
  • The National AIDS helpline:0800 567 123
    This is a freephone number and will not appear on your telephone bill.
  • Your local sexual health/GU (genito-urinary) clinic
  • Look in your local telephone directory under any of the following:
    • GU Clinics / GUM Clinics
    • Sexual Health Clinics
    • The name of your local hospital
    • The name of your local community healthcare trust


We are not able to offer a helpline service at the moment but here are some other numbers you might like to try:

  • Directory of Pink Therapists An online directory of over 200 qualified, experienced and lgbt friendly counsellors and psychotherapists working in private practice throughout the UK.
  • The Pink Practice [EXTERNAL] which is a group of gay therapists
  • BMA Counselling: a service for members and their families ­ 08459 200 169
  • London Friend Often seen more as a counselling-focused support line than many lesbian and gay switchboards, and they do offer face-to-face counselling and support group work. London Friend's phone number is 0207 8373337. Open between 7:30pm and 10pm every evening. You may find that your local switchboard can offer these services too (see below).
  • Your local lesbian and gay switchboard
  • The National Counselling Service for Sick Doctors ­ 0870 241 0535
  • The Samaritans ­ 0345 90 90 90

Advice for overseas doctors and dentists

GLADD receives a number of enquiries from doctors and dentists overseas who are interested in working in the UK for a variety of reasons. We strongly recommend that you consults the NHS ROSE web site which is a very comprehensive source of information in this area. If you are a doctor you may like to consider consulting the BMA's International department. GLADD does not have any specific remit in this area but we would be delighted to welcome you as a member of GLADD should you come to work in the UK.