Meeting the Mental Health needs of: Children who are LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ young people are far more likely than their peers to experience depression, self-harm and suicidal thoughts. The cause is bullying, isolation and how other people react, and that's something a school can change.

Practical changes help most. You'll see how to set up safe spaces and student-led groups, and how to challenge discriminatory language calmly and consistently. A pupil who's questioning needs somewhere to talk, and you'll know how to give them that while still following safeguarding procedures if a child is at risk. You'll also know where to point young people for specialist help, from Stonewall's youth resources to LGBTQ+-aware therapists and helplines.

Parents sometimes come to school unsure what to say after their child has come out. You'll have plain, kind advice to give them, starting with three words: I love you.