Page 01 Ann McGuinness
Formerly known as Parent’s Support, LOOK (Loving Our Out Kids) began quietly in 1980 with two sets of parents who felt that the loved ones of LGBT+ children might need help and support in adjusting to the fact of their child’s sexuality. This was a time when the Catholic Church still held sway over the country, it was also a full 13 years before decriminalisation, so tied in was the fact that homosexuality in Ireland was still a criminal offence. So while it obviously took a lot of courage for a person to come out, those who loved that person also had their own fears and worries in tandem.
The early group consisted of parents who, along with the help of Gay Switchboard, would support other parents, providing information as well as a listening ear.