National LGBT rights organization LGL is delighted to present the publication “LGBT youth wellbeing center in Lithuania – analysis of needs and opportunities”. This publication is a result of the study that was produced within the framework of the project “#NOH8LT: Developing Effective Response to LGBT* Hate Crimes”, supported by the US State Department.

The study aims to examine the existing advocacy practices, volunteering experiences, LGBT youth work in order to formulate a comprehensive programme for the LGBT youth wellbeing center.

In the last several decades LGBT young people are becoming noticeably more open at school, with their families and friends. LGBT youngsters choose to come out about their sexual orientation and gender identity at a younger age. This can be seen as a sign that Lithuanian society is changing, becoming more open and young people have access to positive and reaffirming information about the diversity of sexual orientation and gender identity. However coming out, especially at the young age, may have negative consequences. Prejudice, stereotyping and lack of objective information can result in adolescents’ negative view to themselves, despise of themselves and those who are similar to them, sensitivity to rejection, fear to reveal their sexual orientation or gender identity. Unfortunately the existing education system cannot guarantee the protection against bullying and fails to create adequate conditions for the positive development of LGBT adolescence. Therefore it is important to create a space where LGBT youngsters could draw on empowering and positive experiences and to feel safe. One of such spaces could be the LGBT youth wellbeing center, which would provide services based on real needs of the youngsters.

The study presents:

• Challenges that LGBT young people face in family setting, at school and society;
• The specific needs of LGBT youth;
• The review of activities of LGBT youth centers and organizations providing services to this population in the United States and Europe;
• Recommendations for the LGBT youth wellbeing center in Lithuania.

The objectives of the LGBT youth center in Lithuania and its prospective activities are drawn in consideration of specific needs of LGBT youngsters, the examples of good practices from abroad and recommendations, as well as the peculiarities of the Lithuanian context.

Finally, in order to ensure the right of the LGBT adolescents to education, quality health care and safety, it is also important to raise awareness in society, school community, health care specialists and parents.

„LGBT jaunimo gerovės centras Lietuvoje – poreikių ir steigimo galimybių vertinimo studija“, 2016