A new social group in the Nelson region aims to support LGBT youth and their families and friends.

Rainbow Youth Nelson began last month with a couple of informal meetings in people's homes, says co-founder George Gibbs. "It's still evolving, but at this stage it's a social and support group, with the members steering the group as to what activities they're doing. I'd like to see some personal discovery and growth-type activities take place.

"We've met a couple of times already, getting about ten people coming along - an interesting mix of people."

The Nelson region had two successful youth groups in the past, but they recently stopped as organisers went overseas.

Gibbs says the new group is run under the guidance of parents and is open to youth aged 16 to 25.

"I think getting people connecting and belonging to a group is quite important. So if anything goes wrong, they know they've got someone to support them."

For more information about Rainbow Youth Nelson, call George on 03 545 2284 or 027 240 1830, or Lynne on 03 539 0572. The group can also be reached via email: georgegibbs@xtra.co.nz