The You're Accepted app and website allows LGBTI people to send an anonymous message to family or friends via Facebook or email to figure out whether they would be a supportive person to come out to.

A joint project from LGBTI youth charity Minus18 and communications firm GPY&R, the project aims to allay fears around coming out by helping LGBTI people test the waters anonymously.

"The message would be very generic, totally anonymous. One of your friends is gay, would you support them?" app creator David Gallo explained.

Then, if they wish, the person who received the message can respond to the anonymous person saying they would be supportive of their identity. The LGBTI person would be able to see who has replied to them, so they know which people it is safe to come out to.

More than 100 people have used the service since it launched on Tuesday.

Minus18 CEO Micah Scott told BuzzFeed News he often hears young people ask, "how do I know my friends will accept me?"