Sex   Sexuality

Growing up can be a very confusing and emotional time especially the whole area of sex and sexuality. Discovering your sexual identity can take time and only you can decide where your true feelings lie. If you're not sure which sex you are attracted to, remember you are not alone! There are people who can help you, will listen to you and can give you advice and information.

There are some key points you should keep in mind...

• We are all different and as we grow up our feelings can change.
• Everyone has a sexuality - it is part of your persona.
• Sexuality is unique to and is experienced differently by everyone - there is no right or wrong sexuality.
• During teenage years, many young people feel more at ease with members of their own sex, than with people of the opposite sex.This is part of growing up and does not mean that you are homosexual.

If you have sexual contact with a person of the same sex, this does not mean that you are gay. It is often just part of growing up and exploring your sexuality. Some young people know they are gay. This can be very difficult to deal with. The important thing to realise is that you are not alone. You can get help, understanding and advice, from a range of organisations. The legal age of consent for heterosexuals in N.I. is 17. The legal age of consent for homosexuals in N.I. is now also 17.