Many people have feelings towards other people of the same sex, and wonder whether this means that they are gay. For many people these feelings can be very intense and alienating. Some people who are attracted to other people of the same sex are gay and go on to have sexual relationships with people of the same sex. But other people who have gay feelings find that these change over time and they become attracted to people of the opposite sex.

 

Other people are attracted to both men and women, and have relationships with both. Some people are not attracted to anyone and wonder if this is a sign of homosexuality. Often it is only time that will resolve these feelings.

 

Some people with gender identity disorder come to the decision to change their sexual identity and live as the opposite sex to that they were ‘officially’ born as. They become transsexuals or ‘trans people’.

 

If you think you might be gay or have gender identity disorder, and feel you need to talk to someone, there are lots of organisations that can provide information and support for you. The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Help Centre (GLBT) website has lots of useful information and resources.

 

Gay Knowsley weekly youth groups are open to all young people who identify themselves as lesbian, gay or bisexual (or think they might be) and are aged between 13 to 21.

 

This group provides peer support where young people can attend, meet other young people and enjoy youth activities in a safe environment. The group is confidential. For further details contact 0870 990 8996 (12pm to 6pm) or text 07748140275 (6pm to 10pm).

 

The Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual (LGB) support group looks at issues such as community safety, hate incidents, victim support, housing and council services.

 

The support group is committed to improving the safety and quality of life for individuals from the LGB community and has the full support of Armistead. For more information and contact details, visit the Merseyside Police website.