Q@48?

Hi b3ll3t,

Welcome to the OutLife Forums.  

Thank you for explaining your situation so clearly. Firstly, I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband, it must have been very hard for you and your children.  I hope you have been able to get suitable support.

I think you are right, it is a different age now and much easier to be LBGTQ+ than it was, even though there are still considerable challenges for some.  

I am a 64 year old cis gay man so I certainly understand how hard it can be.  It was much harder when I was young.  I married and had children due to religious convictions but it clearly didn't work out for me.  I fell prey to the belief I should and could 'pray the gay away'.  On the up side I did have 3 wonderful children - all grown up now but no regrets there.  

It is really good that you can talk with your daughter about sexual and gender issues like that.  It took a while before mine were encouraging me to find love but they do now.  It seems that you understand and accept yourself and want to move on to a new life with more possibilities in terms of relationships but now comes the hard bit, finding someone special.  The process is different for everyone - depends on your temperament - how adventurous you want to be, etc.

I always recommend a phone chat to the Switchboard where to can talk at length with very experiences volunteers.  Call any time between 10am and 10pm on 0300 330 0630.

Many areas have local meet up groups for LBGTQ+ people of all ages.  It may be worth investigating.  Very often finding someone through a shared activity is a good way but coming out can be hard.  If you want coming out advice there is a good read on www.outlife.org.uk/how-to-come-out .   You may also find something of use here:-  www.outlife.org.uk/Pages/Category/relationships

I am sorry I can't be much of a help but hopefully you don't feel quite so alone? - there will be many lovely people like you out there looking for someone too.  I have no experience of dating sites or apps but if you search for 'LBGTQ+ dating' there are many options for different approaches it seems.

Best wishes.  Simon.