“What do you say to them?” investigating and supporting the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the experiences and support needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people living in Sussex (UK), and the associated training needs of community practitioners working with LGBTQ young people. The aims were to explore the experiences of young people including bullying, ‘‘coming out,’’ and social service and educational needs, and to investigate how practitioners view the needs of LGBTQ young people. Twenty-nine interviews were conducted and analyzed thematically. Participants stressed the social and health impact of discrimination andbullying on LGBTQ young people as well as barriers faced in accessing services. Young people require support, yet practitioners lack the training to provide that support. Practitioners are open to this training and both groups of participants believe effective training should include youth in the development and delivery. There is an urgent need for the development of appropriate and dedicated LGBTQ youth training for all practitioners working with young people.