Get support

Just Like Us is the LGBT+ young people’s charity. We’re here for you.

Ambassadors Millie and Isaac

Just Like Us is the LGBT+ young people’s charity, here to help you thrive

Being LGBT+ is something to be celebrated. Sadly, people in our lives don’t always understand this – or us. Sometimes we can also feel this struggle inside too. Please know that you are not alone.

Just Like Us is the LGBT+ young people’s charity, here to help you thrive.

If you’re under 18, we can help your school to be more supportive – you can mention Just Like Us to a teacher you trust. Our charity helps schools to set up Pride Groups, and we can come in to give a talk too. If your school doesn’t have a Pride Group or doesn’t do much around LGBT+ topics yet, you can ask a teacher to get in touch with us and we’ll do everything we can to make it happen.

We also have a guide for families that you can share with your parent, carer or another relative, if you feel safe to do so. It contains advice for family members on how they can support you with lots of examples from other LGBT+ young people about ways they can help you.

Whatever you’re going through, there are people who understand and want to help.

If you are struggling or questioning your identity, below are some LGBT+ friendly places we recommend reaching out to for support.

LGBT+ Guide for Parents front cover

LGBT+ support

Switchboard is the national LGBTQIA+ support line. You can speak to them via phone, email or online chat. Your call will be answered by an LGBT+ person who has been trained to support young people, and you can talk about anything that’s on your mind.

Galop supports LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse and violence. You can contact them by phone, email or webchat.

Gendered Intelligence is a charity for trans, non-binary and gender diverse young people. They offer a support line and youth groups.

Mental health support

Switchboard is the national LGBTQIA+ support line. You can speak to them via phone, email or online chat. Your call will be answered by an LGBT+ person who has been trained to support young people, and you can talk about anything that’s on your mind.

Shout provides 24/7 text support for young people in crisis, but only in certain areas of the UK. You can check if they have support available for your area.

Young Minds has information for young people about mental health and emotional wellbeing, and some young people’s coming out stories. They also provide free 24/7 mental health crisis support – text YM to 85258.

The Mix provides free, confidential support for young people under 25. You can also text them on 85258 for urgent mental health support.

Childline is a free counselling service for young people up to the age of 19. They have information about being LGBT+ and you can contact them by phone, email or online chat – open 24/7.

Beat is the UK’s eating disorder charity. They have information on their website about how LGBT+ young people may be impacted and a helpline you can phone.

Sexual health support

Switchboard is the national LGBTQIA+ support line. You can speak to them via phone, email or online chat. Your call will be answered by an LGBT+ person who has been trained to support young people, and you can talk about anything that’s on your mind.

Brook is the sexual health and wellbeing charity. They provide advice on safe sex and relationships that includes LGBT+ people.

Get support

Find LGBT+ friends and learn new skills

If you are LGBT+ and age 18 to 25, you can find support through our Ambassador Programme. 91% of young people who take part say it’s improved their wellbeing.

Winners Lav Breen and Liv Hennessey on stage at the Just Like Us Ambassador Awards