The Pene Team

• Joan and Laurie
  We are the parents of two sons, our youngest son, Richard, is gay. In 1995 Joan helped the late Pat Atthey set up Parents Enquiry as they realised the need for support for parents in the North East. Joan is the co-ordinator of the group and mans the main helpline, husband Laurie acts as secretary.
  Our aim is to help parents through the tears and fears and move them on to be fully supportive of their gay children so keeping families together.

• Sue and Paul
  The parents of three sons, two of whom are gay, Sue and Paul are practising Catholics.
  “Paul and I have never questioned our sons’ sexuality, we have just accepted it because we believe our boys were born with the sexuality they have and we do not judge them. We believe in a god that welcomes all no matter what their sexuality”.
  

• Janis and Keith
  Having previously contacted us for support they now feel ready to give something back to other parents.

• Jill
  Living in Teeside Jill is mum to a young gay son. She contacted us for advice when he was fifteen and has gone on to be supportive and proud.

• Marilyn
  Is not on line but acts as our meeter and greeter at our support group as well as helping out in many other ways.

We have a committee of ten, seven parents of gay children and three members of the gay community. We also have volunteers who we can call on in various parts of the North East.