The Reverend Emma Duff has been appointed to lead a new chaplaincy service for LGBTQI+ communities within Newcastle Diocese.

The service will provide a safe space for people to discuss matters relating to sexuality and the church.

Reverend Duff, a former lawyer ordained in 2014, will take up her role on October 1.

She said: "I’m delighted to have been appointed as lead LGBTQI+ chaplain and am looking forward to recruiting a team to provide welcome, support and safe spaces.

"In our churches and in society at large, LGBTQI+ people face discrimination and danger.

"Recent Stonewall research found that less than half feel safe holding their partner’s hand in public."

The chaplaincy service will support those who identify as LGBTQI+ and their loved ones, helping them to feel confident about being part of diocesan and church life.

The Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle, said: "I am delighted that Emma has been appointed as LGBTQI+ lead chaplain in our diocese.

"This chaplaincy role is a visible demonstration of our desire to ensure that we are resourcing and celebrating the inclusion of those who have too often been marginalised and silenced by the church’s debates and practices."

The Diocese of Newcastle is a Church of England diocese based in Newcastle upon Tyne, covering the historic county of Northumberland.