Remember to: – Use the same terms that the young person uses to describe themselves, their partners, relationships, and identity. – Ask them if you are uncertain about what terms to use. – Make your questions as open as possible, in order to give the young person room to describe and express themselves. – Avoid assuming that it is acceptable for you to use terms that have historically been derogatory (‘reclaimed language’), even if they choose to self-identify that way. – Listen calmly to feedback if you use incorrect terminology and ask what language the young person would prefer, without excessively apologising or becoming defensive. By using appropriate and inclusive language you can help the young person to feel safe and comfortable. Become familiar with what LGBTQIA+ stands for and its meanings below. ‘Lesbian’ refers to a cis or trans woman who has a romantic and/or sexual orientation towards other women. Some non-binary people may also identify with this term. ‘Gay’ refers to a cis or trans man who has a romantic and/or sexual orientation towards other men. It can also be a generic term for lesbian and gay sexuality. Some women define themselves as gay rather than lesbian. Some non-binary people may also identify with this term. ‘Bi’ or ‘bisexual’ are umbrella terms used to describe a romantic and/ or sexual orientation towards more than one gender. Bi people may also describe themselves as pan, queer, or some other identity. ‘Trans’ is an umbrella term to describe people whose gender is not the same as, or does not sit comfortably with, the sex they were assigned at birth. Trans people may describe themselves using other terms, such as transgender, non-binary, or genderqueer.
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