Gay Cumbria - Support
Here we have provided some support information and articles, we hope you find them useful. Please note that all experiences differ and each situation should be tackled on its own merit, our support articles are for guidance only.
Please follow the links below.
Coming Out | Cottaging/Cruising | Domestic Abuse | Drink Spiking/Date Rape
Homophobia | FFLAG - (Family & Friends of Lesbians & Gays) | In the Closet
Relationship Break Up | Personal Safety Tips
Cottaging/Cruising
Cottaging is a term used to describe people who meet up in public toilets for the purpose of sex. It is a part of gay male culture, but it can and does happen between women too.
Cruising is usually undertaken on open spaces such as woods or heath land.
Having sex in public can be more risky than having sex at home for example, you could encounter homophobia from strangers posing as fellow cottagers/cruisers.
Indiscreet behavior may upset local residents and incite violence or public complaints may result in police prosecution. Although cruising/cottaging itself is not illegal, you can be charged with lude or indecent behavior in a public area.
If you must cotttage/cruise here are some safety points.
Do not carry too much cash or valuables.
Going home with a stranger will make you more susceptible to robbery, blackmail or violence.
When in a cottaging/cruising area, ALWAYS carry condoms and a water based lube.
Keep public areas clean and resist writing on “cottage walls” as this may bring complaints to the police. Throw you used condoms in the bin, the last thing that’s needed is for a child to play with a used condom!
Get regular check ups from your local GUM clinic
