Wondering about your sexuality or gender?

Sexual orientation is part of your overall identity. It describes who you are emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to.

Everyone experiences attraction differently, and your understanding of your sexuality can change over time, that’s completely normal.

Common ways people describe their sexual orientation

People use a wide range of terms to describe their identities. Some of the most common include:

• Bisexual (Bi) – attraction to more than one gender.

• Gay – attraction to people of the same gender. Often used by men, but some women also use this term.

• Lesbian – a woman who is emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to other women.

• Heterosexual (Straight) – attraction to people of a different gender.

• Pansexual (Pan) – attraction to people regardless of gender.

• Asexual (Ace) – little or no sexual attraction to others (though emotional or romantic attraction can still exist).

• Queer – an umbrella term some people use to describe diverse sexual orientations or identities.

There are many other identities too, and you don’t need to label yourself unless it feels right for you.

It’s okay to question

You might already feel certain about your sexuality, or you might still be figuring things out. Your feelings may change over time, or they may stay the same, both are completely valid.

There is no “right” timeline or way to understand who you are.

“Coming out” is when someone shares their sexual orientation or gender identity with others. This could be with friends, family, or wider communities.

For some people, coming out can feel empowering and freeing. For others, it can feel difficult or uncertain. Everyone’s experience is different.

You don’t have to come out unless you feel safe and ready, your wellbeing always comes first.

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Support for young people aged 13–25, including youth groups, chat services, and resources.

website: https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk

Information, guidance, and support resources for LGBTQ+ people and allies.
Website: https://www.stonewall.org.uk

A confidential listening service if you need someone to talk to.
Website: https://switchboard.lgbt

FFLAG (Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) – support for families and loved ones.
Website: https://www.fflag.org.uk

Support for trans, non‑binary, and gender‑diverse children and young people, plus their families.
Website: https://mermaidsuk.org.uk