Out to the Family - Narrated by Felix Dexter

As teenagers develop into adults, it is natural for them to question their sexuality. This can be extremely painful for some young people.

- If they are attracted to someone of their own sex, they may be very anxious that people will discriminate against them.
- Any worries about gender identity, which may be present from an early age, become even more disturbing as children grow into their teens.

Parents' support is vital for these young people, who are often lonely, isolated and afraid. But many parents who discover their children are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) are shocked, confused and upset. Some react in the heat of the moment with grief, anger or even rejection. Later, they may deeply regret the damage caused to their family relationships.

The film shows six families, from a wide range of backgrounds, coming to terms with the developing sexual or gender identity of a son or daughter. It aims to help parents and others understand more about the issues facing their LGBT teenagers, and how best to help them. It shows how family acceptance and support can make all the difference for young people who may be at risk of serious - even life-threatening - social or mental health problems.

The pack, which includes a 15-minute animated film and booklet, is designed to raise awareness, aid discussion, and highlight the needs of LGBT teenagers. It is suitable for young people, parents and families.

Sam's Story
Sam, from a very young age, has been different from other boys. At 13, he is distressed by signs that he is becoming a man. His mother has prepared herself to find that he is gay, but instead he tells her he wants to change gender.

Leeds Animation Workshop, the non-profit-making co-operative company that produced the DVD, has made over 30 productions on subjects including equality, harassment, workplace and family problems. Commissioned by the Women and Equality Unit at the DTI, OUT AT WORK was produced in partnership with the TUC, Citizens Advice, Yorkshire and the Humber Regional TUC LGBT Forum, GALYIC (Gay and Lesbian Youth in Calderdale) and Leeds Chamber of Commerce.

Suitable for groups or individuals, the DVD is ideal for showing in meetings, education or training, to employees, employers, and the public. It gets the message across about the new equality rights for lesbians, gays and bisexuals at work -- what they are, why we need them, and why they are a good thing.

OUT TO THE FAMILY is available on DVD (which includes an English subtitled version), or on VHS (with or without subtitles). A booklet is supplied free with the film, which is available for hire or for sale from:
Leeds Animation Workshop
45 Bayswater Row,
Leeds LS8 5LF
Tel/fax: 0113 248 4997
info@leedsanimation.org.uk
www.leedsanimation.org.uk (less info)