A story of struggling with gender and sexual orientation.

“I like hip hop and, musical theatre, and like nothing more than to hang out with friends and just chill but I am struggling. Recently I have become quieter especially when my friends said they were going to the pride march as it would be fun. 

I am not sure if I am cis gendered or not, if I am gay or not it’s all one big mix up of feelings. Do I like girls or boys or both? Do I identify as male or female? I’m just really confused about everything right now. I just want to talk openly about it all but think I will be judged.”

How Sam can get help

Understanding who you are is confusing for everyone during their teens but if you are confused over gender identity and/or sexual orientation it can be especially confusing. There are people and organisations that can help you. Do not struggle alone, seek help, and advise. 

Gender identity 

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/trans-teenager/#:~:text=If%20you%20feel%20confused%20about,of%20differences%20in%20gender%20identity.

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/sex-relationships/gender-identity/

https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/young-people/

Sexual Orientation 

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/sex-relationships/sexuality-sexual-orientation/

https://www.barnardos.org.uk/what-we-do/supporting-young-people/lgbtq

Do you need help?

  • Humberside Police

    Humberside Police – If you have concerns about someone’s wellbeing, please report to the police on 101 or dial 999 if it’s an emergency.

  • ceop

    CEOP – If you’re worried about online abuse or the way someone has been communicating online, if you have been a victim or are worried this is happening to someone you know, this can be reported safely and securely to CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection) through their experienced Child Protection Advisors.

  • Crimestoppers

    Crimestoppers – reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

  • Childline

    Childline – if you have any worries about a child or young person. Call free on 0800 1111, or have a 1-2-1 chat online or send an email via their website at www.childline.org.uk any time of the day or night.

  • NSPCC - 24/7

    NSPCC – 24/7 line for for adults and young people to express concerns they may have in relation to child sexual exploitation (CSE), 0800 389 1701
    NSPCC – 24/7 adult helpline covering all child protection issues, 0808 800 5000

  • Fearless.org

    Fearless.org – Fearless is a site where you can access non-judgemental information and advice about crime and criminality. What makes this site different is we also provide you with a safe place to give information to us about crime – 100% anonymously.

Or she can speak to a trusted adult such as a parent, grandparent, teacher, youth or social worker who can use this website to figure out how best to get help in this very dangerous situation.