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Don't listen to the ignorant. Being gay is not a mental illness or emotional problem; it's a natural, normal and healthy part of you, no more or less than eye colour.

 The age of consent is 16 in the UK, and it is illegal to have sex under this age. This law is in place to protect young people from getting into adult relationships before they are ready, or being taken advantage of by older and more experienced people.

Starting a sexual relationship is a natural part of growing up. You're bound to want an outlet for your sexual feelings, but don't start having sex until you are ready. You are in total control of what you do and with whom.

Sex is not a sin! Some prefer to be in a relationship and only have sex with one partner, while others treat sex more casually and might have sex with several partners. Some couples prefer "open relationships", where the partners are free to have sexual encounters with people outside of the relationship, but still have commitment and stability with a main partner.

There are no rights or wrongs as long as you don't hurt anybody or yourself. Do what's right for you. Only have sex when you are ready and remember, whether in a committed relationship or not, use condoms, be safe.

Check out this great website for loads of information on sex and relationships, R U Thinking About It?

It's important to be aware of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) when becoming sexually involved. Check out Avert which is an excellent site for information about HIV and AIDS and other STDs.

Enjoy sex, equip yourself with knowledge and look after yourself!

You will often see this abbreviation: LGB or LGBT. Ever wondered what this means? It stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender.

 Well, there's plenty you can do to improve your situation:
  • Carry on doing what you are doing now: reading this website! Explore the other sections, leave messages and make friends on the forum and why not write an article for the website to share with other people and help them to see that they are not alone.
  • Join a gay youth group. I have some listed here, but the best list I have seen can be found at GayYouthUK.
  • Meet people online: for gay guys, try Out In The UK or GayDar (over 18's only), and for gay girls try The Pink Sofa or GayDar Girls (over 18's only). Be sure to look at my tips for safe internet chatting.
  • Try calling a gay helpline and see what gay groups and events are happening in your area. The helpline numbers here and on GayYouthUK will help.
  • Take a friend with you and brave a gay pub. Just being around other gay people can make you feel less isolated. And you never know, you might make a new friend. Try the Gay Times magazine and website for venue listings.

There's plenty to be getting on with, so what are you waiting for?

Remember, if you are finding things are getting on top of you and you're having a hard time, write to me at the problem page.

Good luck!