Cavan and Monaghan's LGBT+ youth development officer says lockdown is
forcing young members of that community to feel isolated.
Barry McSkeane says that since the beginning of the restrictions young
people locally who are struggling with their identity and sexuality have
felt alone and often trapped in their own homes.
He says that often this is because they feel unsafe to come out or discuss
these issues or thoughts with their loved ones and is encouraging parents
and guardians to open up the conversation.
Barry said he has had some heart-breaking conversations with young people
who were told they were 'disgusting' because of their sexuality.
He is asking families to let the young people in their lives know they love
them 'without restrictions':