Relationships

This is a key issue for LGB young people. Meeting other LGB young people can often be the most important factor when using services. It is important for workers to build relationships with LGB young people that are open and transparent to all. LGB young people will see workers as role models and mentors and this is often unique to this work. Due to relationships formed by workers and LGB young people (often spanning several years) it is important for all workers to be aware of guidelines around professional boundaries. It is a good idea to develop these with LGB young people and highlight them whenever a client accesses any services. (See appendix E for further information)

Sexual relationships between LGB young people are inevitable and should be allowed to develop if appropriate, though it should be clear that this is not the primary function of any service. Open and honest discussion amongst staff and service users about the sexual relationships should be encouraged as part of any programme. Workers should discuss their roles and thoughts before they engage in this work.

For many LGB young people exploring issues around sex and relationships has not developed in the same way as their heterosexual peers. Experienced workers need to allow time for discussion and personal development around these issues, in a safe and facilitated environment.

Families

LGB young people often highlight their family as an area that can create great anxiety and emotions regarding their sexuality.

Often LGB young people will begin living a “double life” and suppressing their sexuality or hiding their sexuality altogether from their families. This causes immense stress and pressure for LGB young people to adopt heterosexual roles.

For the majority of LGB young people “coming out” to family is sighted as the most difficult part of the coming out process. Providing information and sharing experiences of this process with others will enable LGB young people to choose the right time to come out to their family. Providing information that represents families’ ethnic, cultural and faith backgrounds is also needed for LGB young people. The Naz project in London produces resource and provides services around issues of sexuality and culture, visit www.naz.org.uk

Services should also provide information to parents or carers of LGB young people, or make referrals to supporting agencies, as a way of supporting the client.

All workers should be clear that their work is confidential and is not discussed with parents or carers unless the young person consents to this.