Claire Voyant LGBTQ+ Inclusion Mentor

I grew up in a world where Disney movies told the same story: the prince saves the princess. In the 80s and 90s, there were no LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream media. Instead, in the UK, we had Section 28—a law that actively banned the “promotion of homosexuality” in schools. Like so many others, I was left feeling confused, isolated, and ashamed of who I was.

I didn’t know it was okay to be attracted to girls. I tried to follow the path society laid out for me: relationships with men, a marriage to an abusive partner, and eventually two children. The emotional and physical toll of that relationship was devastating, but I stayed for years—haunted by the voice of my father saying, “You made your bed, now lie in it.” He had no idea what my children and I were enduring.

Eventually, with the support of my parents, I found the courage to leave and rebuild my life as a single mother. It was a long journey of healing, involving counselling, financial hardship, and ongoing struggles with autoimmune illness. But it was also a time of profound personal transformation.

A year after moving back to my dad’s hometown, I had an unexpected spiritual experience. Over six weeks, I felt God prompting me to return to a church I’d attended in my teens. Despite my hesitation—knowing how many churches reject LGBTQ+ people—I went. To my surprise, I was welcomed by a young, tattooed minister and his wife, who were genuinely kind and open-hearted.

Three weeks later, I had a deeply moving encounter with Jesus. I felt pure, unconditional love, and a sense that He had work for me to do. I said yes.

I was baptised shortly after—but I was still hiding a crucial part of myself. Months later, I sat down with the minister and tearfully told him the truth: I didn’t find men attractive. I wanted to be with a woman. I asked if there was still a place for me in the church. To his credit, he embraced me. Slowly, I came out to my family—and to my joy, they responded with love.

Soon after, I fell in love with someone in the church. But when others found out we were in a queer relationship, I was pushed out. It felt like losing a family all over again.

But I wasn’t alone. I found online communities of LGBTQ+ Christians and affirming spaces where I could belong. I was invited to lead a 10-week program for others navigating coming out and reconciling their faith and identity. That experience lit a fire in me. For the past four years, I’ve been helping people find freedom, healing, and wholeness—especially those hurt by religious trauma or held back by shame around sexuality or desire.

Today, I’ve found an inclusive church where all are truly welcome. I host worship evenings there, creating spaces of deep belonging. I’m also engaged to my incredible partner, and we’re planning a joyful wedding surrounded by love and acceptance.

The work I do now is deeply personal. I support clients navigating religious trauma, sexuality, identity, and the inner conflict between desire and conditioning. Whether you’re coming out within a faith-based environment or simply want to live more freely and fully, I’m here to walk alongside you—every step of the way.

You don’t have to choose between your faith and your truth. You can have both. And you can thrive.

If you would like to know how? It will be my honour and pleasure to help. 

Much love 

Claire Voyant