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LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and more. These are terms that refer to sexual and gender identities.

Sexuality and gender are two different aspects of our identity. Sexuality is who you are attracted to physically and romantically. Gender identity is your internal sense of gender, whether that is a girl, a boy, neither or both.

There a lot of different words/labels that people use to describe their sexuality and gender identity. These different terms are represented by the plus sign in LGBTQ+. You might identify with more than one of the terms under the LBGTQ+ umbrella.

It is common to feel nervous about telling others about your sexuality and/or gender identity. You may be fearful that you won’t fit in or be accepted by your friends and family. You might feel overwhelmed by your worries, so seeking out support is very important and can really make a positive difference.

Gender and sexuality definitions

Find Norfolk LGBT Project resources & guides here

Our Experiences

By young people, for young people

"One time in my school, I was walking in the hallway and people said homophobic comments to me. I felt uncomfortable and I didn’t want to tell anyone how I felt, but one day I told my friends what was going on because they knew I wasn’t feeling myself. Once I told them we reported it and then the bullying stopped.

"Most of my friends are part of the community so I was comfortable telling them about my sexuality." 

Ezra, Age 13

(Some names changed to protect people's identities)

All You Need to Know

Who Can Help?

If there's an adult or friend you can trust, have a chat with them about your questions or worries. They might be able to put your mind at rest or give you some useful advice.

If you live in Norfolk:

If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Service by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you live in Waveney:

You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.

LGBTQ+ Project provides support, information and advice to all age groups that is relevant to the health and wellbeing of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Norfolk and Waveney.

Norfolk & Waveney Mind - LGBTQ+ & Mental Health provide mental health support resources for people who identify as LGBTQ+.

Akt.Org is a national charity specialising in LGBTQ+ youth homelessness with advice and support on housing, finance and health. 

Mermaids supports gender-diverse young people aged 19 and under, and their families and carers. Call their helpline on 0808 801 0400 or get in touch via their webchat. 


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