LGBT+ Youth Project

'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.

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...

We asked the young people in GYRO to write their tips for coming out, based on their own experiences:

1. Be true to yourself, and take time to accept yourself.
    
2. Do it in your own way, in your own time - don't feel pressurised by other people.
    
3. Choose a good time and place - do not plan to do anything else for the rest of that day or evening.
    
4. Prepare somewhere safe to go if it doesn't go well. Remember, if you do go somewhere else then telephone and let people know that you are safe and will call the next day.
    
5. Start by telling someone you think will be supportive.
    
6. Do it when you feel ready to answer the questions people may ask. Prepare yourself for other peoples reactions, and take care of yourself. They don't always react the way you'd think.
    
7. Drop hints to prepare people or allow them to find out for themselves, but be aware they may see what they want to see, or they might already know!
    
8. Give the person that you are 'coming out' to time to think about what you have said to them. If it has taken you a number of years to accept who you are then it could take them a time to get to grips with what you have told them.
    
9. Find support for yourself - friend, helpline, support group, to talk through what you are going to do before, during and after you 'come out'. Try more than one group to find the right one for you - you may also make new friends along the way.
    
10. Bring your partner round to meet your parents. If they can see you are happy, it may be easier for them to understand and support you.
    ​

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.

Are We There Yet? - From Homophobia To Equality:

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.

'Are We There Yet? - From Homophobia to Equality' is available on DVD with a resource pack aimed at 13 to 19 year olds. The resource pack includes 10 activity sheets plus a glossary of useful vocabulary, a timeline of LGBT history and a list of useful websites. It is for sale at £30 each + £2 p&p.