Glasgow University steps up campaign to encourage free choice

Glasgow University students have come together to join a global effort aimed at tackling the ‘crisis’ of depression amongst young gay people.

Members of the Glasgow University Students Representative Council (GUSRC) have collaborated with the student TV station to create a video as part of the 'It Gets Better' campaign.

The video features young gay, bisexual and transgender students sharing their experiences in an effort to encourage people from all walks of life to deliver positive messages to those struggling with their sexuality.

The worldwide campaign started in the United States last year when author Dan Savage uploaded a personal video to YouTube after the suicides of several gay students.

More than 30,000 individuals and groups have contributed videos to the project since.

“Many young gay people commit suicide not because they are gay but because of the way they are made to feel in society," said Drew McCusker, GUSRC sexual orientation equality officer and co-creator of the 'It Gets Better' Glasgow film. "If there are so many people struggling with harassment, isolation and loneliness, it’s a crisis.

“With this video we want to show that Glasgow is a city that’s completely accepting of the gay community. We care about people, we don’t care about pigeonholes.”

Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT) Scotland national youth work manager Euan Platt added: “LGBT Youth Scotland has embraced the 'It Gets Better' campaign and is delighted to see that Glasgow University has produced its own film.

"Sadly discrimination, bullying, and homophobia are still a reality for many LGBT young people, which can result in depression, self harm and suicide.”