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Working in partnership with the Warwickshire Teenage Pregnancy Partnership Board
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Based on the designs of Warwickshire Specialist Health Promotion Service
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Sexuality |
Definitions
Sexuality is a very important part of who we are and how we see ourselves in relation to others. The term sexuality is made up of three parts:
- sexual orientation
- sexual behaviour
- sexual identity
A person with a healthy sexuality feels comfortable with their sexual orientation, identity and behaviour.
Sexual Orientation
This means a person's basic and natural sexual attraction to other people. It may be to:
- people of the opposite sex (heterosexuality, straight)
- people of the same sex (homosexuality, lesbian, gay)
- people attracted to both people of the opposite sex and of the same sex (bisexuality)
No-one knows for certain whether a person's sexual orientation is fixed when we are born, or whether people can choose. Attractions cannot be forced upon people but sexuality is fluid and can change.
Sexual identity
This is how people see themselves and present themselves to others. Because society promotes heterosexuality as the norm, some people may feel under pressure to “adopt” a heterosexual identity. For these people this heterosexual identity does not match their sexual orientation and can cause personal dilemma, upset and distress. This is why some people may choose to “come out”.
These days society's attitudes and values are changing to be more 'accepting' of homosexuality. In 2000 the age of consent was made the same for everyone, as 16 years old.
Sexual Behaviour
This is how people express themselves sexually and the sexual activities they do. Our sexual behaviour does not always match our sexual identity or sexual orientation: a person may show heterosexual behaviour while feeling they may have a lesbian or gay orientation.
Helping Agencies
Some people may worry or question their sexuality. The following organisations can provide information and support for those who are unsure of their sexuality or would like further information:
G.Y.G.L. (Godiva Young Gays and Lesbians) Support Group
- (024) 7622 4090
- Helpline and youth groups in Coventry and Warwickshire
- Line staffed Monday to Friday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Answer phone outside office hours
- No referral criteria and clients can self refer
- Youth groups
- internet website: www.gygl.co.uk
Coventry and Warwickshire Friend
- (024) 7671 4199
- (Gay and Lesbian information and counselling)
- Helpline open: Monday to Friday 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
- No referral criteria and clients can self refer
Lesbian and Gay Switchboard West Midlands
- (0121) 622 6589
- Helpline open 7pm – 10 pm
- Outside hours recorded messages covering such topics as: information on the switchboard services; sexual health; drugs; coming out; pubs & clubs in the area; mental health; Gay Pride event.
- internet website: www.gaymidlands.org
FFLAG – Family and Friends of Lesbian and Gays
- (01392) 279546
- Support group / helpline for friends and families of lesbian and gay people.
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