There are also lots of places where you can find guidance, help and people who care about your wellbeing and welfare.

1. Boundaries

Avoid difficult conversations by reflecting on your boundaries before arriving home – what do you feel comfortable talking about? What are you willing to share about your identity and to who?
Remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation or justification for your gender, sexual orientation, relationships or anything else!

2. Reach out to friends and chosen family

Seek out a listening ear if you feel you need some extra love, support and understanding from your friends and chosen family. Get sharing in that Whatsapp group or have a walk with a loved one who you feel safe with.

3. Access external support over the festive period

These are some suggestions for services that are available to LGBTQ+ people over the winter break and throughout the rest of the year. These services are easily accessible and discreet, involving a phone call or email.

Intercom Trust Helpline – South West based LGBTQ+ organisation.

Open daily from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Call 0800 612 3010, email helpline@intercomtrust.org.uk or visit the Intercom Trust website.
(Please note the helpline is closed from 26 December to 3 January but please check for updates on the Intercom Trust Facebook page)

LGBT Switchboard

Open daily from 10am to 10pm for LGBTQ+ people across the UK.
Call 0300 330 0630 or visit the LGBT Switchboard website.

LGBT Foundation

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm and weekends 10am to 6pm for all LGBT+ people across the UK, excluding bank holidays and religious festivals.
Call 0345 3 30 30 30, email helpline@lgbt.foundation or visit their website.
You can also self refer to use their service by completing the LGBT Foundation Self Referral Form.

Mindline Trans+

Open Mondays and Fridays 8pm to midnight for all trans and non-binary people in the UK.
Call 0300 330 5468 or visit the Mindline Trans+ website.