Workshop to help Cork families support LGBT+ youths

An event aimed at helping families to best support LGBT+ youths will be held in Cork this month.

The workshop event, organised by Belong To, Ireland’s national LGBT+ youth organisation, is aimed at parents, guardians, and foster parents, and is designed to equip families with the tools and techniques to best support LGBT+ young people.

Led by Ray O’Neill, an assistant professor of psychotherapy at Dublin City University, the event will cover the challenges faced by LGBT+ young people in Ireland and will offer participants guidance on strengthening family relationships, supporting young people’s wellbeing and looking after oneself as a parent or caregiver.

Director of youth services at Belong To, Carmel Walsh, said the love and acceptance of family members can make “an extraordinary difference” in the lives of young LGBT+ people.

“Growing up can be tough for any young person, but growing up LGBTQI+ can bring additional challenges."

Ms Walsh said: “Families play a crucial role. With the right tools, parents and guardians can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of their LGBTQI+ young people.

“This event is designed to provide additional information on the current challenges facing LGBTQI+ young people in Cork and across Ireland today, and offer guidance on navigating these as best as possible with their young person.

“[It is also] offering a space for connecting with other parents of LGBTQ+ children.”

Topics that will be covered at the workshop include understanding identities, navigating challenges, communication and immediate support, and long-term advocacy and self care.

The event will take place from 12pm to 3.30pm on January 24, with the location confirmed following registration.

• You can register for the free in-person event now at: belongto.org/youre-not-alone