AS Pride Month draws to a close, but with Pride events still taking place across the region, the NSPCC’s Childline has revealed that its volunteers delivered almost 2,500 counselling sessions over the last year, where gender identity and sexuality were a child’s main concern.

Among the most frequently mentioned topics were: coming out, young people questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity, gender dysphoria and bullying.

Despite the countless rainbow flags adorning windows, packaging and websites in June each year, many young people still feel the need to speak anonymously to our Childline counsellors about their gender or sexuality. They still need a safe and confidential place to turn to, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our Childline service is free, impartial and non-judgemental, to offer support to any young person.

Pride Month is over, but the NSPCC is letting young people know that Childline is there for them. The charity has been present at Pride events up and down the country. But we also want to help adults understand that young people might need support if they have questions about relationships, gender and sexuality, and the NSPCC is also available to help them.

We always encourage adults to be understanding and respectful when young people are exploring their sexuality and gender identity, and to be there for any young person who wishes to discuss these topics. Young people may worry about judgement or a lack of acceptance, so it’s important to have open and honest conversations with them.

If you’re not sure how to help them or feel you’d benefit from a better understanding, signpost them to the Childline website or explore it together - you’ll find information and resources helpful to both of you.

Parents and carers can also visit the NSPCC website which also has information to help adults talk to children about their sexuality, and offers advice on how to help keep them safe. The NSPCC Helpline is 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

The NSPCC is also supporting teachers at secondary schools through its Talk Relationships service working to ensure teachers feel more confident when delivering sessions around healthy relationships and leading inclusive discussions in the classroom. Many young people still prefer to approach Childline directly, especially if they’re finding it difficult to reach out to a trusted friend or adult. If that’s happening in your home, try not to take it personally. Sometimes speaking to a trained counsellor is the outlet that works best for them.

Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 and online through the 121 chat on the Childline website.