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EmailThe term ‘coming out’ is used to describe when someone chooses to share their LGBTQ+ identity with others.
Not everyone likes using the term ‘coming out’ to describe this. Some people talk about letting people in, or simply sharing who they are.
Sharing who you are with people can be wonderful, but it can also be difficult. For some people, it can also be unsafe.
Lots of LGBTQ+ people ‘come out’ in many different settings, many different times. ‘Coming out’ can be different in school, in college, at work, at home, at university, or with friends and loved ones.
No one ‘comes out’ just once. Each experience of telling people about your identity may be different.
On this page we’ve put together some useful resources about ‘coming out’ for any LGBTQ+ young people. Click on the links below the illustration for support.
Please be aware that links are provided for signposting purposes. Stonewall is not affiliated with listed organisations or responsible for the content of external websites.
List of LGBTQ+ Terms
On this page you’ll find definitions of different LGBTQ+ terms.
‘Coming Out’ - support from the Proud Trust
The Proud Trust is an organisation that supports LGBTQ+ young people. On this page, you’ll find helpful information if you’re thinking about sharing your sexual orientation, romantic orientation, or gender identity with others.
Childline – tips for ‘coming out’ and keeping safe
Look at the Childline webpage on ‘coming out’ for advice on when to tell people, stories from other LGBTQ+ people and tips on how to stay safe and take care of yourself if someone reacts badly.
Mental health support
Things can be tough if you don’t feel supported, accepted, and embraced as your authentic self. On this page there are some great resources for LGBTQ+ young people that you can use to support your mental health.
LGBTQ+ Youth Groups
Finding a local LGBTQ+ youth group can be really useful and supportive if you’re thinking about your LGBTQ+ identity. Use this page to find LGBTQ-inclusive and LGBTQ-specific youth groups in your area.
Homelessness support
If you're currently homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, use the resources on this page to find support.
Conversion therapy support – Galop’s national conversion therapy helpline
The National Conversion Therapy Helpline is open 10:00-16:00, Monday to Friday on 0800 130 3335, or you can email CThelp@galop.org.uk.
It is a dedicated conversion therapy helpline run by experienced LGBT+ staff. The helpline is open to all LGBT+ people in the UK who are victims of so-called “conversion therapy”, or who think they might be at risk. The service is run by LGBT+ anti-abuse charity Galop, which works directly with thousands of LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse and violence every year.
allsorts of ‘Coming Out’
This is a pdf resource written by and for young people who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual (+) or Unsure/Questioning their Sexual Orientation.
It has been created by allsorts youth project, and organisation that listens to, connects & supports children & young people under 26 who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity (LGBT+).
Whoever you are, wherever you are on your journey, this resource is for you. It is a space to help you understand your own feelings, consider some of the ways in which you might want to talk about your experiences and have the confidence to share who you are with others if or when you feel ready.
