The campaign was launched in response to new research showing that 99 percent of lesbian, gay and bisexual young people hear phrases such as “that’s so gay” or “you’re so gay”, while 84 per cent are distressed when they hear this homophobic language.

The hard-hitting new campaign, fronted by Will Young, uses new posters and guidance to address the misuse of the word gay. Posters have been sent to over 2,500 schools across the UK and state clearly, “Gay. Let’s get over it”.

Will Young said, “The word ‘gay’ is currently used as one of the worst insults by young people of all ages. It’s clear from the shocking levels of self-harm and suicide among gay young people that we’re failing an entire generation. It’s time to take a stand and put a stop to this deeply damaging use of homophobic language.”

Stonewall’s Deputy Chief Executive Ruth Hunt added, ‘We know that many people who casually use the term ‘that’s so gay’ don’t intentionally mean to be offensive. But the reality is that their words cause hurt and distress. That’s why we’re launching this flagship campaign so teachers and parents have the resources to tackle the problem head on.

“We want every young person, teacher and parent in Britain to challenge this language and change the culture of our schools,” she concluded.