12:00, 25 February 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
The latest campaign from Just Like Us launches a new guide for parents aimed at fostering allyship for LGBTQ+ children.
Just Like Us, a charity supporting LGBT+ young people, released The LGBT+ Guide for Parents, providing essential support for families navigating the challenges and opportunities of raising LGBT+ children, as well as those seeking to become better allies.
Created in response to the growing concern over anti-LGBT+ language in primary schools and harmful public discourse, the guide offers practical advice on how families can cultivate acceptance, celebrate diversity, and encourage open conversations.
The guide covers crucial topics, such as supporting your child if they come out, encouraging schools to be inclusive, and confronting stereotypes about LGBT+ people. It also highlights the voices of LGBT+ young people, offering invaluable insights into the realities of growing up in a world where acceptance is not always guaranteed.
Among the notable figures lending their voices to the campaign are actor Jonathan Bailey, singer Jessie Ware, DJ Annie Mac, and Paralympic gold medallist Lauren Rowles. They all stress the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment for children, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Jonathan Bailey, who is also a patron of the charity, shared his thoughts:
"Any home can welcome in a member of the LGBTQ+ community. There should be no shame in not knowing how best to support your LGBTQ+ children—only in not trying to learn and protect them."
Meanwhile, Jessie Ware expressed her belief that allyship begins at home. "I want my kids to grow up in a world where they feel safe, loved, and accepted for exactly who they are," she said.
Laura Mackay, Chief Executive of Just Like Us, noted the significant impact of family acceptance, emphasising that no young person should fear rejection for being their true selves.
"A lack of family acceptance can lead to devastating consequences," she warned, "from estrangement to even homelessness."
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Just Like Us. This charity supports LGBT+ young people by providing resources to help them thrive, including offering guidance for parents to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Find out more.
Stonewall. One of the UK’s leading LGBT+ charities, advocating for the rights of LGBT+ people and providing educational resources. Learn more here.
The Proud Trust. This charity offers services for LGBT+ young people, including educational workshops, support groups, and social events. They aim to empower young people to express their identities and build resilience in a safe community. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Reduced inequalities, Partnerships For The Goals.
