What is Shane?

Shane is your go-to global platform for finding, rating, and reviewing spaces that get you. Whether you’re looking for a queer-friendly coffee shop, a safe gym, or a gender-inclusive bathroom, Shane makes it easier to find spaces that prioritize LGBTQ+ safety, inclusivity, and respect.

Our platform has two parts:

• The Web App (launching December 17th, 2024): A browser-based tool that lets you search, rate, and review spaces using handy filters like "Accessible," "LGBTQ+ Led," and "Trans Friendly." No account required—just jump in and explore safely and anonymously.

• The Mobile App (coming in 2025): Everything you love about the web app, plus next-level tools like real-time safe navigation, live location sharing, and emergency safety features. Profiles will be required to verify users (don’t worry—everything stays anonymized).

Together, these apps help you confidently navigate the world, find safe spaces, and feel a little more at home wherever you go.

What’s the difference between Shane’s web app and mobile app?

The Web App offers:

• Search, Rate & Review: Discover spaces that put LGBTQ+ safety and inclusivity front and center.

• Category-Based Search: Easily find spots like "Food, Drink & Nightlife" or "Health & Wellness."

• Custom Filters: Fine-tune your results for accessibility, allyship, and more.

• Anonymous Access: No account? No problem. Use the web app without logging in.

• Community Reviews: Share your thoughts on safety, allyship, and inclusivity metrics.

The Mobile App, launching in 2025, takes things further with:

• Safe Navigation: Get real-time route updates to avoid unsafe areas.

• Emergency Tools: Share your live location, set safety triggers, and report incidents in-app.

• Profiles: Required for mobile app use to ensure all users are verified humans. (Your privacy is still protected with anonymized profiles!)

• On-the-Go Features: Access everything you need, no matter where you are.

While the web app is your perfect starting point, the mobile app will give you a full suite of tools for exploring the world safely and confidently.

Can I download Shane web app like an app on my phone or computer?

Absolutely! Shane's web app—live from December 2024—can be downloaded straight to your device for quick, one-tap access. It’s a web app (for now), but you can save it to your home screen or desktop, and it’ll work just like an app—no need to fumble through browsers or bookmarks.

You’ll see a prompt to “Download” (or spot it at the top of your screen), and with one tap, Shane will be ready to launch whenever you need it. Think of it as a shortcut ahead of our full mobile app release in 2025. Fewer steps, more ease, and just a touch of tech-savvy magic.

What can I search for on Shane?

You can search for anything from brunch spots to inclusive healthcare providers! Popular categories include:

• Food, Drink & Nightlife

• Entertainment & Leisure

• Travel & Accommodation

• Health & Wellness

• Shopping & Personal Services

• Gender-Inclusive Toilets

Plus, use filters to refine your search by features like accessibility, LGBTQ+ ownership, or Shane Certification.

How do reviews work on Shane?

Shane’s reviews are designed to give the community actionable insights:

• Star Ratings: Score spaces on criteria like "Overall Safety" or "Visible Allyship."

• Details Section: Indicate features like accessibility, family-friendliness, or gender inclusivity.

• Recommendations: Share whether you’d recommend the space to others.

• Optional Comments: Add extra context about your experience to help others.

Note: Keep it constructive! Negative feedback is welcome but should focus on improving inclusivity and safety. Hate speech, defamatory content, and outing individuals or businesses without consent are strictly prohibited. (See our Community Guidelines for more info.)

I spotted a bug or something quirky—what’s going on?

Great catch! Shane is fresh out of the oven—we’re new, we’re growing, and we’re still ironing out a few kinks. Think of it as a work in progress, with a whole lot of magic behind the scenes.

Here’s the deal: Shane gets better the more you use it. The more you explore, share, and help us grow, the smoother and more helpful it becomes for everyone. So really, you’re a big part of this journey (we see you, hero).

If you do spot a bug or something funky, hang tight—we’re already on it. And if you’ve got feedback or ideas, send them our way. Let’s make Shane something great, together.

Can’t find a place you’re looking for?

We get it—super frustrating! Shane’s map is built using Mapbox’s database, which is one of the most reliable and flexible mapping tools out there. We chose Mapbox because it allows us to create a smooth, beautiful experience while keeping the focus on LGBTQ+ safety and inclusivity.

While we can’t add places directly to the database ourselves, we’d love to hear from you. If there’s a spot missing, drop us a message, and we’ll reach out to Mapbox on your behalf. We can’t promise when it’ll happen, but we’ll do our best to get it on the map. After all, every awesome space deserves a place to shine.

How does Shane ensure user safety?

Shane takes safety seriously, offering a range of features to keep you protected:

• Community Reviews: Honest, peer-sourced insights into inclusivity and safety.

• Detailed Ratings: Spaces are rated on factors like "Overall Safety" and "Trans Inclusivity."

• Filters for Specific Needs: Find spaces that meet your requirements, from accessibility to allyship.

• Safe Navigation (Mobile App): Avoid unsafe areas with real-time, optimized routes.

• Emergency Tools (Mobile App): Notify trusted contacts, share live GPS data, and report safety concerns with a tap.

• Allow List for Unsafe Regions: In areas where being LGBTQ+ is illegal or unsafe, only pre-approved entities (like international advocacy groups or public LGBTQ+ organizations) will be listed to protect users and organizations.

Is Shane available in my area?

Yes! Shane is a global platform, accessible to LGBTQ+ users everywhere starting December 2024 via the web app. In areas where it’s illegal or unsafe to be LGBTQ+, we use an allow list policy to protect users and organizations.

Which countries are on Shane’s allow list for unsafe regions?

In countries where being LGBTQ+ is illegal or unsafe, Shane takes extra steps to keep you protected. We use an allow list policy, meaning only certain pre-approved entities are listed in these regions. These might include:

• Global Advocacy Groups or International Organisations like UNHCR and Human Rights Watch.

• Local LGBTQ+ Organizations that are publicly active in the area.

• Entities That Ask to Be Included (because we’re not here to list anyone without their consent).

Examples of countries where this policy is in place include:

• Afghanistan

• Saudi Arabia

• Iran

• Uganda

• Nigeria

• Russia

• Brunei

Shane’s allow list policy exists to ensure no one is put at unnecessary risk by being listed without explicit permission in these high-risk areas. This list isn’t set in stone—it evolves based on global safety conditions. Bottom line: we’re here to prioritize your safety and ensure no one gets outed or put at risk.

Do I need an account to use Shane?

• Web App: Nope! No account is needed, so you can explore freely and anonymously.

• Mobile App: Profiles will be required to verify users, but don’t worry—it’s free, and all information is anonymized to protect your privacy. Safety first, always.

How can I support Shane?

We’re so glad you asked! Here’s how you can help make Shane even better:

• Use the web app to search, rate, and review inclusive spaces—your experiences help others feel safe and seen.

• Spread the word! Share Shane with your friends, family, and community—good things are meant to be shared.

• Get local businesses on board. Encourage your favorite spots to apply for Shane Certification—it’s a badge of pride for safe, inclusive spaces.

What is Shane Certification?

Shane Certification highlights businesses and organizations that are committed to LGBTQ+ safety and inclusivity. Certified spaces are prominently marked in search results and on the Shane map, so you can trust they’ve got your back.

Does Shane offer accessibility features?

Yes! Shane makes it easier to find spaces that will cater to your needs.

Is Shane free to use?

Absolutely. Shane’s core features are free on both the web and mobile apps. Premium features, like advanced safety tools, will be available with the mobile app in 2025.

How can I stay updated on Shane’s development?

Stay in the loop by signing up for updates and following us on social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook).

Have more questions?

We’re here to help! Contact us through the form on our website, and we’ll be happy to assist.