LOOKING FOR LOVE NOW I’M OUT

Dear Coleen

I’m a 19-year-old gay guy and I’d love to find someone to have a relationship with.

A couple of months ago, I came out to my family and they were brilliant about it. My good friends – all of whom are straight – already knew and have always been really supportive.

But I can’t help feeling sad that I don’t have a boyfriend now I’m out and can date people without worrying that I haven’t told my parents.

I don’t have a group of gay friends so I don’t think I’ll meet anyone through my social network. How do I go about trying to meet a guy?

I think I lack a bit of selfconfidence when it comes to meeting new people, which doesn’t help. Any advice?

Coleen says Yes, stop worrying about it! You’re a young guy and have bags of time to meet your Mr Right. Most teenagers have exactly the same worries about finding love – whether they’re gay or straight. I bet if you asked all your straight friends, they’d tell you exactly that.

I think you should focus on having fun with your friends and don’t get fixated on finding a partner when you’re socialising.

You can obviously give yourself the best chance by going to gay bars and clubs, and you’ll meet people.

And find out about things on in your area like Youth Pride events (visityoungstonewall.org. uk). Getting involved is a great way to make new friends.