Sexuality
heterosexual, bisexual, lesbian or gay
During your teenage years, your sexual feelings will start to develop. You might be:
- attracted to people of the opposite sex
- attracted to people of the same sex
- attracted to people of both sexes
Remember, there’s no need to rush to label yourself or your sexuality – sometimes it’s best to wait until you know for sure...
Nobody knows what makes someone heterosexual, bisexual, lesbian or gay – you don't choose your sexuality - it’s just part of who you are. If at any point you feel confused or worried about your sexual feelings or your sexuality and you want to talk about it - your Connexions Personal Adviser in school, college or at your local Connexions Centre is there to help. You can speak in private about your feelings, relationships and anything else that may be bothering you. No-one will judge you and it might help you to become clearer about the way you feel.
You can also find useful information on the following websites, and contact the local groups and helplines listed below for extra support.
Useful websites
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Information and advice for gay, lesbian and bisexual young people and those questioning their sexuality. (Check out the ‘Teens’ section and the ‘Gay and Lesbian’ section.) You’ll also find useful information on sexual health.
The Surgery
This BBC website contains advice on how to deal with your own feelings about your sexuality, coming out and finding a girlfriend or boyfriend. Visit the ‘Sex and Relationships’ section to find the information you need.
The Site
Advice for lesbian, gay and bisexual young people and those coming to terms with their sexuality. Click on ‘Sex and relationships’ and then ‘Sexuality’ to find the information you need.
YGM (Young Gay Men)
Website for young gay and bisexual men and men questioning their sexuality. It contains information and advice on coming out, sexual health, assertiveness and other relevant issues.
Local lesbian, gay and bisexual groups / helplines
The G &Y Breakfast Club
Social and support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered young people under 18. Meets in Hanley on Saturdays mornings to work on their own youth magazine. To get involved or find out more phone 01782 425969.
Galaxy
Social and support group for lesbian, gay and bisexual young people aged 18 and under. Meets in Hanley on Saturday afternoons. An ideal way to make and meet new friends and get information, advice and support on any issue. Phone 01782 425969 for more information.
Sorted
Social and support group for lesbian, bisexual and gay young people aged 18 - 25. Meets in Hanley on Friday evenings. Phone 01782 425969 for more information.
South Staffordshire Mesmen Project
Social support and sexual health information for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people in South Staffordshire. Includes LGBT Youth Group. Phone 01543 411413 for more information
LGBT Network for Stoke on Trent and North Staffordshire
A 'one-stop-shop' providing information about groups and agencies supporting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire.
North Staffordshire Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Switchboard
Phone 01782 266998 Mon, Wed and Fri 8pm-10pm
West Midlands Lesbian & Gay Switchboard
Phone 0121 622 6589 7pm-10pm
