'LGBT+' Youth Liverpool
Gyro - provides a safe, comfortable space where young people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans*, questioning their sexuality or their gender identity (LGBT+) can get to know other young people.
Gyro provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore your sexuality and/or gender identity. We run groups every week (see below) were we explore LGBT+ issues, general issues facing young people and have opportunites to go on residentials and chat with staff about any issues you may be facing.
The Gyro drop-in’s take place at YPAS' Liverpool city centre location.
Timetable for the open access groups at each of our hubs
Most young people self-refer by attending the drop-in, were they will receive an induction including an explanation of how the group works and what it can offer. During this time an Initial assessment will take place to identify any additional needs and if they are receiving support elsewhere.
If additional needs are identified and the young person feels they would benefit from 1-1 support from an IAG worker (Information, Advice and Guidance) which are based on goal driven sessions. If it is identified that therapeutic support is required, then a referral will be made to the counselling & psychotherapy service.
In most cases young people self-refer, and some do so without the knowledge of their family / carer as they are not out about being LGBT+. We also work closely with parents and carers with the young person’s consent.
What Gyro offers:
The Gyro team are available during the week for 1-1 Information Advice & Guidance appointments. Ask the team about this when you come to a group or contact us.
Coming out to yourself...
No two 'coming out' experiences are ever the same - but the fact that other young people are going through a similar process means that groups like GYRO can offer understanding and support.
Remember you are doing this for yourself. Be positive - the process of 'coming out' can be energising and empowering.
Gyro, Liverpool’s youth group for lesbian, gay, bi and trans young people is fighting back against homophobia in the city with a DVD based on the experiences of its members.
Click here for an 18 minute film aimed at 13-19 year olds - it uses drama, animation, original music and research to present issues: coming out, bullying at school, harassment at work, love and relationships.
The message in the film is that young lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people are equally deserving of support for the issues they face in the important years of adolescence from 13 to 19.
A young person's story from 'Are We There Yet?' DVD:
The project gave group members the opportunity to grow in confidence with the issue of confronting homophobia - the fear and dislike of lesbian, gay and
bisexual people which can lead to bullying, harassment, violent assault and, in extreme cases, even premature death.
The title 'Are We There Yet?' arose from the group's reflections on significant events such as Holocaust Memorial Day, LGBT History Month, and the 40th anniversary of the decriminalisation of
homosexuality in 2007.
Reflecting on the past, alongside more recent landmarks such as the equalisation of the age of consent in 2000 and the introduction of civil partnerships in
2005, helped the group to appreciate how much has been achieved in working towards equality.
At the same time, their experiences of prejudice in the home, school, workplace and community shows we still have work to do.
GYRO has seen an increase in enquiries from children as young as 12 - our society has changed enough for them to seek support in early adolescence, perhaps
even to ‘come out’ while still at school.
But too many young people still experience fear, rejection, isolation and bullying because of something they cannot change any more than their ‘straight’ tormentors can - their sexuality.