Open four days a week LGBT Youth Scotland’s live chat is an anonymous text-based service where young people (13-25) in Scotland can confidentially discuss their gender, sexuality and gain support and resources.
Because it’s anonymous and text-based, young people can share who they are and how they are feeling on their terms.
In 2021 I started as a volunteer in this very service. I had my induction, did my training and by October I was ready to start my work with the Digital team supporting LGBTQ+ young people through our Live chat. In all honesty I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I knew what the live chat was there for and the kind of chats that I might get as a volunteer.
In my time at LGBT Youth Scotland, I have chatted to young people who are questioning their gender, exploring their sexuality and some that want to come out, but are not sure how to. I’ve also chatted to young people who are really struggling and really heard the pain and the challenges that the community is facing.
What I didn’t expect was what I would gain from being part of this service. I didn’t expect that day to day I would be inspired by the resilience and bravery that LGBTQ+ young people all over Scotland would bring. And that now as a staff member I would work with volunteers who express the same admiration and pride they have in being part of young people’s journeys.
‘I enjoy helping young people figure out who they are and what they are worth. It is the highlight of my week to feel like I'm doing something as meaningful as volunteering with the digital team!’
I didn’t expect the joy I would feel hearing about the steps that young people take on their journey. Some coming back to tell us about the ways they came out. Some telling us our resources helped them understand themselves better. Others going from thinking about going to group to being active members (that I have even got to meet in person!).
‘Thank you so much! You've honestly helped me a lot more than you think. I've got ideas on how to come out with my mum and it's all thanks to you!’
We’re often told that talking about what we’re going through can help, but getting to the stage of talking can be such a mountain for many of us. Sometimes we can feel like no-one around us understands, or we could be worried about speaking our truth out loud. For many LGBTQ+ young people in Scotland this is often the case.
And yet, so many have taken that step and more. I’m so grateful to all the young people who have shared with me. To all the chats I’ve had, thank you. And to all the chats we’re yet to have, we’re here when you need us.
If you think a young person would benefit from talking to us, you can direct them to the LGBT Youth Scotland Live Chat. Accessible via our website it is open Mondays 4-6pm and Tuesday to Thursday 4-8pm.
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