I was interested to read your Christmas appeal feature (10 December, page 16).

However, I would like to point out that, although the Albert Kennedy Trust is a vital organisation for young gay people who are shunned by their families, it is just as important that their parents (and other family members) know that support is available to help them better understand what young gay people go through.

Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays is a national organisation that provides local helplines and support groups (both confidential) run by parents who have already experienced their child coming out. Although I didn’t suffer any kind of trauma when my youngest daughter came out at 17, by giving my support to other parents through FFLAG I came to understand that many parents are simply ignorant about homosexuality. As a result, many feel a kind of bereavement – as though they’ve lost the child they thought they had – while others fear they might lose friends or be rejected by their church.

Parents are the people who can change attitudes in the workplace and in their social circles; they may be school governors or on management committees where ignorance can be replaced by tolerance and acceptance. If there are any parents out there who suspect their child is gay, or are having difficulty dealing with a child coming out, they can call FFLAG on 01454 852 418; email info@fflag.org.uk or visit www.fflag.org.uk.

Jane Clayton, Stockport

Source

Housing Today