The free service every Irish parent should know about to help support their LGBTQ+ child

Belong To has been providing a range of services for LGBTQ+ young people for over 20 years

Since 2003, Belong To has been the leading organisation for LGBTQ+ young people in Ireland. Today, with roughly 1 in 10 people in Ireland identifying as LGBTQ+, it’s more than likely that you have LGBTQ+ people in your workplace, your local GAA club, and your own community.

When a young person comes out as LGBTQ+, it’s a significant moment of trust. For many parents, the immediate reaction is a desire to be supportive, but that often comes with a lot of questions. In a world that is changing fast, it’s completely normal to feel like you’re playing catch-up with new terminology or wondering what your child's future looks like.

Belong To understands that while you want your child to flourish, ‘coming out’ can feel like a steep learning curve. Whether you’re navigating new topics or just want to ensure your child stays safe and happy, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

In 2024, Belong To launched a dedicated Family Support Service specifically for parents and family members. It’s a confidential, non-judgmental space designed to give you the clarity and confidence to support your child as they grow.

"I just want my child to be happy in his own skin. It's fantastic that we can get the advice and support that will help our children flourish as who they really are." – Parent & Service User.

The Family Support Service is about practical guidance and connection. It’s a reminder that you aren't the only parent asking these questions. The service helps you:

• Get the Facts: Break down the terminology and the modern LGBTQ+ landscape without the jargon.
• Find Your Community: Realise that thousands of other Irish families are on this same journey.
• Be the Best Ally: Learn how to keep communication open and show your child that you’ve got their back.

"It is heartening to know that we're not alone, there's nothing to be scared of," shared one parent after contacting the service. Another added: "In a world that looks momentarily to be against them, I have felt like Belong To has had our back. They support me in my care for my children."

Below, Edel, Family Support Officer at Belong To, provides insights on the most common concerns facing Irish families today:

Q: My child is quite young, but I think they might be LGBTQ+. Is there a "usual" age for this?

Edel: "Research launched in 2024 (Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland) shows that the most common age a young person in Ireland knows they are LGBTQ+ is 12, and the most common age they share that information with someone is 14. However, we know from working with families that many children know and come out much earlier. The best approach is to keep the lines of communication open. If they feel heard now, it strengthens your relationship for the future."

Q: I’m worried about my child being treated differently or bullied at school. What can I do?

Access Support Today

Whether your child has recently come out, or you just want to be better prepared to support them, the Belong To Family Support Service is here. This is a free and confidential service available to parents right across Ireland.

• Website: belongto.org
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 01 670 6223

Supported by Tusla.