When your child comes out as LGBTQ+, it is normal to experience mixed emotions. Some parents feel a sense of loss that the person they knew so well seems to have changed. Others worry for their child’s safety or what the neighbours and other family members will think.

You are not alone in this experience. These are common feeling of parents who have learned that their child is LGBTQ+. You are here because you want to support your child. But you also need to support yourself.

Parents and caregivers play an important role in supporting a young person who has come out as LGBTQ+. The support services we offer at Belong To are primarily to provide support to young people. In doing this, you are welcome to meet with us or talk to us as we support your child.

We recommend that you connect your child with one of our youth groups. We support LGBTQ+ youth groups around Ireland where your child can meet like-minded people, talk about their experiences, and have some fun. All of our Youth Groups are facilitated by experienced Youth Workers who can support your child around their gender and sexual orientation.