“Walk in my shoes” – that’s the resounding message from young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people at an event to promote inclusion and understanding of the daily challenges they face.

Organised by the LGBT Sub Group of the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP), the event is the first of its kind reaching out to professionals who work with young people, including teachers and youth workers.

Laura Wylie from Youth Action’s Out & About group said, “Events like this are really important.  They give teachers, youth workers and health care professionals the opportunity to gain first hand insight into the issues that face young LGBT people.”

LGBT young people often feel marginalised and can be at additional risk of being pushed into unsafe environments while young people with issues of gender identity face even further challenges, particularly within education where they are limited in terms of gender expression.

Hilary Johnston, Public Health Agency and Chair of the sub group highlights how “Research has shown that homophobia is normalised in society, particularly within education, where the system has a heterosexual bias.  Apart from raising awareness, we hope events like this will help improve the educational experiences of young LGBT people, as well as their mental and physical health.”

Attendees at the event also emphasised the importance for young people of a right to an environment free of harassment and discrimination.

Casey Forbes from Co.Tyrone noted, “Training events like ‘Walk in my Shoes’ are so important, as they not only provide a snapshot into the lives of a young LGBTQ person that participants can learn from, but also shows young people that things can get better because individuals care.”

Koulla Yiasouma, Commissioner for Children and Young People who spoke at the event said  “I am delighted to be participating in this event. As a society we cannot ignore the experiences of our LGBT young people. We need to understand their lives and experiences better and ensure that their rights are fulfilled. It is unacceptable that this group of young people experience discrimination and denial of their identity.”