Young and Gay - or might be?

For some the first feelings about sexuality may be confusion and uncertainty, for other young people they are certain about who they are. Often the problem is meeting people like you to share the good and bad things about being young and gay. It's very easy to end up feeling isolated – like you are the only one. That's not the case. Throughout Hampshire there are hundreds of young people who know they are gay or who are exploring their sexuality. Meeting up with other people can be a good way of getting support, getting to know yourself better, feel more confident and less alone.

One way of meeting new people is by getting involved in one of the great gay youth projects in the area. There are some great youth projects in the area which all meet in safe spaces and have great support and information, fantastic youth workers and young people who know what it’s like to be young and gay. There is a list of all of the youth projects in Hampshire on the youth listings page.

Don't forget that GMHP offers one to one support, if you want to talk to someone in confidence. We can also arrange for you to meet with a youth worker who understands what it is like to be young and gay. Call the Project for more information.

We also have a few useful leaflets in the office. These explore a load of issues for gay young people including talking to other people about sexuality and what to do if you are a victim of homophobia. We can send you a copies of leaflets if you want. We also have copies of a book called 'A Stranger in the Family' which we can send if you want a longer read.

If you are feel that your parents need some more support there is a new group called Parents' Friend in Southampton, there is also a national support organisation called FFLAG (Friends and Families of Lesbian and Gay people). The contact details are on the links page.

Other good people to talk to are Youth workers, Connexions PA’s, School nurses and School counsellors who all offer a confidential service. You might also want to look at a few good websites that we have found these are on the youth listings page.