People behind the Michael Causer Foundation are appealing to the public to vote for them to receive vital funding for the cause.

The foundation has been whittled down to three finalists to win a grant of £3,000 from the Royal Bank of Scotland Community Fund. A spokesperson for the foundations says: “LGBT youth are at greater risk of homelessness, substance misuse, self-harm, and suicide. The Foundation aims to create safe places for them to live and get support.

“Many LGBT young people feel they would not remain in Liverpool long term because of a perceived lack of safety and opportunity (Stormbreak 2006). By supporting them within their community, the Foundation will empower LGBT young people to be active citizens and contribute to our city's diversity.

“The grant will help us to research the needs of LGBT youth in our city and effective ways to support them. This will enable us to apply for larger grants to develop suitable safe and supported accommodation for LGBT young people who are homeless or at risk.

” How to vote AT RBS: Go to your nearest RBS branch in Liverpool or Birkenhead and fill in a Community Fund voting leaflet.

ONLINE: Go to the RBS Community Fund website and vote online. You need to enter your Liverpool postcode and select your nearest branch to get the shortlist of local community projects: COMMUNITYFUND.RBS.CO.UK

Voting ends on 26th November. Winners will be announced in December.