Many young people from the LGBTQ+ community struggle being themselves at school and in public spaces.

This comes from research by organisation COC. Young people say they dare not speak about their sexual orientation or gender identity.

They fear reactions from classmates. Many schools also do too little to create safe environments.

Teachers rarely speak about gay, lesbian or transgender people. This makes young LGBTQ+ people feel alone.

COC calls schools to focus more on inclusivity. This can happen by discussing the topic regularly in class.

It is also important that schools make clear discrimination is not accepted.

According to COC, parents and teachers have a big role. By discussing the topic normally, young people feel more accepted.