I am working with a number of young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT). They have little local support to help them to deal with their issues, such as homophobia and coming out to parents and friends. What can I do to support them?
For many young people who identify as LGBT, having a person in their lives that they can trust to talk to about their worries is a fundamental step towards them accessing support and feeling good about themselves.
Many towns have a LGBT youth group or provision, often linked to the local youth service or another voluntary youth organisation. This is a place where young people can meet with others who are experiencing similar issues in a safe, confidential and professionally supported environment. LGBT youth groups allow young people to be themselves regarding their sexual orientation, but also do many of the activities that mainstream youth groups do. Have a chat with your local services and see what is on offer. If you can't find anything, you could work with them to develop something to meet the needs of this group of young people.
Jeanie Lynch works for Barnardo's and has 25 years' experience of working with vulnerable children and families
Email questions, marked "Experts", to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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