The use of self: the conscious or unconscious (sharing or) leaking of identity by LGBQ cisgender women youth workers in the North of England

Purpose This paper discusses how professionally qualified cisgender lesbian, gay, bisexual or queer (LGBQ) women youth workers present their self. The research examined consciously unconsciously shared sexual identity with young people whom they worked. Whilst this focussed on workers, issues discussed are relevant for practitioners from a range of professional backgrounds such as therapists, social teachers and health care practitioners. focused only the experiences LGBQ men trans different so requires separate research. Design/methodology/approach taking qualitative approach, used in-depth interviews to discuss respondents information about identity. Findings Some fifteen interviewed reported not having choices being out sexuality had been leaked. Others were able pass choose when, if, be people. Their strategies sharing regarding by these participants reflected approaches out. Originality/value Although there is evidence in literature closeted impacts little written effect other professionals. that has undertaken area focusses impact clients rather than article contributes filling gap literature.