This page is currently being reviewed before being incorporated into the Survival Guide

Lesbian, gay and bisexual

Gay men are men who are attracted to (loves, fancies) other men, a lesbian is a woman who is attracted to other women. A bisexual person is attracted to both men and women.

How do I know if I'm gay?

Some people feel that they are definitely gay or straight. Others find that their sexuality (who they are attracted to) changes as they grow older, or when they meet new people. People often change their mind, so don't worry if you're not sure.

Working out your sexuality can be very confusing, but talking to other young people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual (or not sure) can help.

You can use the contacts at the bottom of the page to find groups, meetings and helplines.

Young and gay

Young lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals have particular problems when they're growing up.

At school, or living with your parents, or even around friends, you may feel the need to hide your sexuality. You may not be sure that you are really are gay. You may be worried that parents or friends will reject you.

Many young people put off exploring their sexuality, straight or gay, until they have left home or gone to college. This can avoid problems, but may also lead to unhappiness.

If you are want to talk about your sexuality, there are people there who will listen, help you work through any problems, and put you in touch with the many, many young people in the same situation as you.

Check out the local contacts for where to get started.

What can I do when?

The age of consent for gay men in the UK is 16, the same as for heterosexual couples. Though the law says nothing about lesbianism, if a woman has sex with a girl under 16 she can still be prosecuted, under different laws.

Some people feel this is too young to decide that you are gay. Some people believe that you should not have gay sex at all. Some religions insist on this. This may include your friends, your parents, and your religion.

What you decide to do is up to you and your partner, but it's practical and polite to consider the people you are living with.

Safer sex

Homosexual couples don't have to worry about unwanted pregnancy, but still risk transmitting or catching HIV infection and other STIs.

Find out more, including how to get condoms, on the Sexual Health page.

Homophobic bullying

If you are a young person who is being bullied because you are gay, or because other people think you are gay, you are not alone. Over 75% of gay pupils report that they have suffered homophobic bullying at school.

But it can be very difficult to tell parents or teachers that you are being bullied because you are gay.