Bridgend

Information » Family & Relationships » Being in a Relationship » Same Sex Relationships

• Your sexuality is not something you decide, it is something which simply ‘is’ , like your shoe size or eye colour. Some people are predominately attracted to people of the same sex as them. They are gay or lesbian. These feelings are also known as homosexuality.
• Those attracted to people of both sexes are bisexual.
• Remember, you don’ t have to give yourself a sexuality label. You are an individual.
• There is nothing wrong with being gay, lesbian or bisexual. They are normal feelings, just like heterosexual feelings, although not everyone sees it that way.
• Some people feel threatened by people with a different sexuality to their own and this can discourage gay people to be honest about who they are.

Coming out

• ‘Coming out’ refers to telling other people about your sexuality
• For some people, this can be a big relief. But others might experience hostility or even rejection from ignorant people.
• You should never feel pressured into coming out – it is your personal decision whether or not to tell anyone and who to tell.
• Make sure you are comfortable with your own sexuality before you tell others.
• Choose people you can trust to tell first, like a good friend or a family member, who will give you support.
• Telling your parents will be more difficult than telling your friends. They might be shocked, upset, sad, or happy for you or maybe they already have their suspicions. Whatever their reaction, they love you unconditionally and you can work out any problems together given time.
• Don’ t feel pressurised to tell everyone. Sexuality is a private thing and not everyone needs to know if you don’ t want them to. For example, teachers, colleagues or potential employers.
• The people you tell might ask you some questions so you could think about preparing some answers to make it easier for you. For example, they might ask how long you’ ve known or if you have had a gay experience yet.

It is illegal in England and Wales to have homosexual sex under the age of 16 years old and remember to always use a condom during penetrative sex to avoid the spread of sexually transmitted infections.