Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People's Online Safety
A conversation guide for parents supporting LGBTQ+ young people to stay safe online, covering identity exploration, targeted harassment, and finding safe communities.
LGBTQ+ young people often use the internet to explore their identity, find community, and seek support. Whilst this can be positive, it also carries specific risks including targeted harassment, exposure to predatory adults, and the pressure to share personal information in online spaces. This conversation helps you support your child's safety without undermining their sense of identity.
When to have this conversation
When your child is exploring their identity or when you want to proactively create a safe space for open discussion. For ages 13 and above.
Before you start
- • Reflect on your own understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and be prepared to listen without judgement.
- • Familiarise yourself with trusted LGBTQ+ youth organisations such as Stonewall, Mermaids, and the Albert Kennedy Trust.
- • Think carefully about how to frame the conversation around safety without making your child feel that their identity is the problem.
Conversation by age group
"I want you to know that I am always here for you, no matter what. Can we have a chat about staying safe online?"
parent
"I know the internet can be a really important place for finding people who understand what you are going through. That is a positive thing. But I also want to make sure you are safe in those spaces."
Lead with acceptance and support. The safety conversation flows from that foundation.
child
"I am careful about what I share."
parent
"I am glad to hear that. The main things to watch out for are: adults who take a particular interest in you and try to build a private relationship, anyone who pressures you to share personal information or images, and spaces where hate or harassment is common."
parent
"If anyone online makes you feel uncomfortable — whether it is hate or someone being too friendly — you can always tell me. I will help, not judge."
Reinforce unconditional support clearly.
Tips for this age
- • Recommend trusted LGBTQ+ youth resources such as Childline and the Switchboard helpline.
- • Discuss privacy settings and the importance of not sharing their school, location, or full name in LGBTQ+ forums.
"I want to check in about your online world. I know it can be a great source of support, and I want to make sure it stays that way."
parent
"As you get older, the online communities you are part of might change. Some are brilliant — supportive, kind, and genuinely helpful. Others can be toxic or attract people with harmful intentions."
parent
"Trust your instincts. If a space starts to feel negative, or if someone's attention feels inappropriate, step back and talk to someone you trust."
child
"I know what I am doing."
parent
"I know you do. And I respect that. I just want you to know that my door is always open — for good news and bad. You will never lose my support by being honest with me."
Tips for this age
- • Respect their growing independence but keep the door open for future conversations.
- • Discuss the risks of dating apps and meeting online contacts in person, with practical safety steps.
Follow-up actions
- → Share information about trusted LGBTQ+ helplines: Switchboard (0300 330 0630) and Childline (0800 1111).
- → Check in periodically about their online experiences in a relaxed, non-intrusive way.
Related safety topics
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.