WAN2TLK? New Texting
Service Helps New Zealand Teens

Teenagers in New Zealand with questions about sexuality can now get prompt and personalized replies, thanks to a new text-messaging service launched by a youth group.

The Curious TXT service was developed by the Out There youth development project in response to national surveys revealing that less than 8% of students and teachers thought LGBT students would feel safe at schools, and that only 20% offered ways for students to explore questions of sexuality.

Creators of the service, which takes advantage of young people's affinity for technology, want to provide a safe way for students to ask potentially difficult questions.

Students in New Zealand are asked to text "curious," followed by their question, to 3535. A reply is promised within 48 hours.