Daniel Radcliffe supports LGBT youth helpline

Daniel Radcliffe has given his support to the Trevor Project (Photo: David D Johnson)

By Jessica Geen • August 10, 2009

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe has given a major donation to a US anti-suicide helpline for LGBT teenagers.

The star has rarely been out of the pink press recently, having said gay rumours about himself are "awesome". He also strongly condemned homophobia.

The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 by three filmmakers whose film, 'Trevor,' a comedy/drama about a gay teenager who attempts suicide, received an Oscar in 2004.

It works to prevent crises and suicides among LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and questioning) youth through school workshops, educational materials, online resources and advocacy, along with the Trevor helpline.

Trevor organisers say the free helpline has received hundreds of thousands of calls since it began and in the past year, calls have increased more than 300 per cent.

The amount of Radcliffe's donation has not been disclosed.

In a statement, he said: "I am very pleased to begin my support of The Trevor Project, which saves lives every day through its critical work.

"It's extremely distressing to consider that in 2009 suicide is a top three killer of young people, and it's truly devastating to learn that LGBTQ youth are up to four times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers.

"I deeply hope my support can raise the organisation's visibility so even more despondent youth become aware of the Trevor helpline's highly trained counsellors and Trevor's many other resources.

"It's vitally important that young people understand they are not alone and, perhaps even more important, that their young lives have real value."

Charles Robbins, executive director and chief executive officer of the Trevor Project, said he was "incredibly grateful" to the 20-year-old actor.

He added: "He is setting a meaningful example for millions of young people around the world by embracing diversity and demonstrating that he cares deeply about the well-being of LGBTQ youth."