What Is Gender Transitioning?
Gender transitioning is the process of changing your gender presentation and/or your body to better reflect your gender identity. This may involve social changes (like changing your name, pronouns, clothing, or appearance), medical steps (such as hormone therapy or surgery), or legal changes (like updating your gender on official documents).
Trans people in the UK face disproportionately high rates of depression, anxiety, discrimination, and suicidal thoughts. These experiences are not your fault. They are often the result of social rejection, isolation, or lack of access to affirming healthcare.
Every person’s transition is unique, and there’s no right or wrong way to be yourself.
Gender-Specific & Trans-Led Charities
1. Mermaids
Website: www.mermaidsuk.org.uk
Support for: Young trans people (up to age 25), their families, and professionals.
Services: Helpline, web chat, support groups, legal advocacy, education.
2. Gendered Intelligence
Website: www.genderedintelligence.co.uk
Support for: Trans youth (aged 8–30), and adults through advocacy and education.
Services: Youth groups, trans awareness training, mentoring, support for educators and families.
3. TransActual UK
Website: www.transactual.org.uk
Support for: Trans and non-binary adults.
Services: Education, advocacy, first-hand experiences, healthcare rights information.
4. Scottish Trans (Equality Network)
Website: www.scottishtrans.org
Support for: Trans people in Scotland.
Services: Legal advocacy, healthcare policy campaigning, inclusive training.
5. TransBareAll
Website: www.transbareall.co.uk
Support for: Trans people’s body positivity and mental health.
Services: Workshops, retreats, peer-led discussions, mental health resources.
6. FTM London
Website: www.ftmlondon.org.uk
Support for: Transmasculine people.
Services: Peer support meetings, online resources, community events.
7. Spectra London
Website: www.spectra-london.org.uk
Support for: LGBTQ+ and trans people across London.
Services: Counselling, sexual health clinics, trans support groups.
Healthcare and Transition-Related Services
NHS Gender Identity Clinics (GICs)
Directory: Find your local GIC
Support for: Medical transition (hormones, surgery, assessments).
Note: Waiting times are often long—consider connecting with peer support during the wait.
CliniQ
Website: www.cliniq.org.uk
Support for: Trans and non-binary people’s health and wellbeing.
Services: Sexual health services, holistic therapies, mental health support.
👨👩👧👦 Support for Families & Loved Ones
Beaumont Society
Website: www.beaumontsociety.org.uk
Support for: Transgender people and their families, especially MTF.
Services: Helpline, family support, local groups.
GIRES (Gender Identity Research & Education Society)
Website: www.gires.org.uk
Support for: Trans individuals and their families through research, education and campaigning.
Services: Guides for families, schools, and professionals.
