Inclusive campus
We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive campus and to supporting all members of our University community to thrive whatever their age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, marital status, nationality or any other characteristic.
We have a zero tolerance approach to any form of discrimination, harassment or bullying.
We offer a range of services to empower our community including disability, mental health and counselling services and support for care leavers and trans students.
All of this is underpinned by our Yes to Respect campaign which continually promotes our commitments to inclusivity, provides a useful source of information and an online reporting tool if something isn't right.
LGBTQ+
At Teesside University we are committed to equality and value the rich diversity in our University community.
We are Tu Proud
Sexuality is the term used to describe how a person expresses their sexual identity. It's about values and emotions and how you feel about yourself as well as about sexual behaviour. It's who you are attracted to and how you choose to express that sexuality.
Sexuality is a complex area of human experience. Sexual identity is not necessarily fixed for life and is dependent on a combination of factors involving our own individual natures. Like many other personality traits, it seems to be formed by the time we reach our teenage years, although it may not be until much later that we come to terms with and accept it.
... to yourself
When you first realise you may be gay it can be a challenging period. You may be having feelings for members of the same sex but at the same time may not want to be seen as different or may be worried some people might not accept you. Your emotions can be in turmoil during this time as your thoughts not only are dealing with how you feel but they may also be thinking about how other people will feel. The important thing to remember is that it is ok. Please remember that the majority of people are understanding and are supportive
If you want someone to talk to during this time, we have a range of welfare advisers who can help in the first instance. We also have a dedicated and specialist counselling team who can also provide support to you.
... to others
It is important, wherever possible, to choose who to come out to and how to do this and not to feel under pressure to do anything you do not feel comfortable with. One way might be to find sympathetic people to come out to first. People who perhaps know you best. Or you may feel more comfortable talking to one of our welfare advisers. They can offer support, signpost some good local community support and useful websites. For more in depth support we also have a counselling team which you can be referred to for extra support.
exuality is a complex area of human experience. Sexual identity is not necessarily fixed for life and is dependent on a combination of factors involving our own individual natures. Like many other personality traits, it seems to be formed by the time we reach our teenage years, although it may not be until much later that we come to terms with and accept it.
Email: studentlife@tees.ac.uk
T: 01642 342277
In person: Student Life based in the Campus Heart
Student Life opening hours
Monday - Friday: 8.00am - 6.00pm
It is common for people at different stages in their lives to be unsure of their sexual identity. Some experiment with different partners in order to come to a decision. Whatever your sexual identity, it is better to wait to have sex until you are sure that you are with the person you really want to have sex with so that you retain respect for both yourself and the other person.
It is important that anyone who is sexually active takes care of their health. The HIV virus now affects all groups of people and not just the gay community as used to be the case; however, gay men must make sure they have a good knowledge of safer sex practices. Gay men should also ensure they are vaccinated against hepatitis B. Remember that you do not need to go to your GP for advice if you are concerned about them knowing about your sexuality. The NHS Choices website and helpline can offer advice and support.
a voluntary organisation which aims to provide a 24 hour information, support and referral service for lesbians and gay men from all backgrounds throughout the UK - 0207 837 7324
Stonewall stands for lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning and ace (LGBTQ+) people everywhere. They imagine a world where all LGBTQ+ people are free to be themselves and can live their lives to the full.
A national charity delivering advice, support and information services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) communities.
Information for families and friends of lesbians and gays
The UK's national LGBTQ+ youth organisation run by and for all sexualities
Middlesbrough's reducing hate crime group aim to provide support to victims of hate incidents and crimes
Support for the transgender & non-binary communities.
Sexual health and wellbeing
Information from the NHS about sexuality and gay health issues
MESMAC North East works with gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men to increase the range of choices open to them
Providing support, advice and guidance to the LGBTQ+ community in the Tees Valley area
News and what's on
The University and Students' Union regularly put on LGBTQ+ events throughout the year. Recent events include:
- LGBT film shows
- Taking part in Pride events across the region
- Rainbow Rounders tournament with teams from organisations across the Tees Valley
- Lunch and Learn with Stonewall
If there's something you would like the University to run talk to either Emma Davisworth on 0758 4490 250, email studentlife@tees.ac.uk, or speak to the Students' Union.
Additional University support
Information about your health and wellbeing as a student.
The University has a counselling service for any issues you may wish to explore.
There may be issues the University can help you talk through.
If you need any information and advice specifically around careers you can find out more on our careers pages.
You can contact the Students' Union for advice and information on sexuality. A student representative from the Students' Union is part of the University's sexuality focus group so if you have ideas of what you would like to see the University do then speak to the Students' Union and let them know your ideas.
We hope you have found this information useful. If you have any comments or suggestions about the services we provide for LGBTQ+ students please tell us.
Join us to shape your University
We have a focus group for LGBTQ+ students and staff at Teesside University. It's your chance to help shape your University. You will be involved in decision making and sharing of ideas on what would make the Teesside University LGBTQ+ community better. We would love you to join us. For further information just drop Emma Davisworth an email at studentlife@tees.ac.uk.
