January 2018 News, events and support opportunities for trans people, including non-binary people, across Scotland. Happy new year to all our T Monthly readers! What does 2018 have in store? For me, I have mixed feelings about January and can often find it hard to get motivated. I’m happy for others to make suggestions, but really it comes down to what feels ok for me at the time. Keeping this in mind, I’m hoping T Monthly will do just that, provide you with plenty of options and suggestions of how to get involved, so that you can choose what’s right for you at the time. If your group or organisation supports trans people, then let us know what you are up to. T Monthly has nearly 1000 subscribers and we know that many of you are sharing information through your own networks, so thank you. Our subscribers include individuals, health professionals, community group leaders and social network administrators who can all help share information. Please do make sure we make the most of these monthly e-bulletins and let us help you promote your events, groups and opportunities for trans and non-binary people far and wide across the country. Just contact me via jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0131 523 1104. Looking forward to this month’s activities, we’re hosting Equal Recognition Reform Consultations at T times in both Glasgow (13th Jan) and Edinburgh (20th Jan). The Scottish Trans Alliance and Equality Network are calling for the reform of the Gender Recognition Act and we’re inviting you to contribute to the consultation. In addition to these group responses, the consultation will be greatly enriched by your individual response too, so to help you do this, the Scottish Trans Alliance have provided guidance here. If you’re keen to get active but in a supportive environment, LGBTQ Yoga sessions run in both Glasgow (starting 16th Jan) and Edinburgh (starting 20th Jan), so please do visit our website for more details. Into February we’re excited about the very first Sextival in Glasgow, the LGBT Swimming sessions beginning again in Edinburgh (including an amazing Queer Pool Party for LGBT History Month) and a community discussion in Edinburgh inspiring conversations about LGBT identities and the D/deaf community. Later in March we have a Self-acceptance skills workshop, which you now can book now here. Download the programme and we hope you’ll find something that’s right for you. Here’s to happy new beginnings, Jules If you’d like to promote your own activities, group or events for trans, including non-binary people through T Monthly, you can contact me via jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or by calling 0131 523 1104, I’ll be happy to help The submission deadline for the next edition is 26th January.
Support for trans people, including non-binary people, in Lothian & Glasgow LGBT Health and Wellbeing offers a range of support through our Transgender Support Programmes (TSP) in both Lothian and Glasgow. We welcome trans female/feminine, trans male/masculine genderqueer, gender fluid, non-binary identities as well as intersex people, people who cross dress and those who are exploring their gender identity. Anyone who lives in and out with Lothian and Glasgow can access (TSP) although all events are delivered in Edinburgh and Glasgow. For information about social opportunities and workshops in Edinburgh, contact: Jules Stapleton Barnes, Development Worker, Lothian E: jules@lgbthealth.org.uk T: 0131 523 1104 For information about 1:1 support in Edinburgh, contact: Annette Rae, Trans Support Programme, Lothian E: annette@lgbthealth.org.uk T: 0131 523 1100 (if answer-phone is on, please leave a message as they are checked regularly) For information about 1:1 support, workshops and social opportunities in Glasgow, contact: Katrina Mitchell, Development Worker, Glasgow E: katrina@lgbthealth.org.uk T: 0141 271 2330 You can also find useful information and resources online: http://www.lgbthealth.org.uk/services-support/transition-support/
BAGIS conference write-up Katrina from the GTSP went along to the British Association of Gender Specialists annual conference back in October - she has written up a few highlights - click here to read about it!
Facial Hair Removal Survey! Earlier this year the Scottish Trans Alliance formed a working group to look into improving access to funding for facial hair removal. The group is preparing a report to be used to lobby for improved funding. As part of this report, they need to collect information about the experiences of Scottish people in accessing facial hair removal. If you are impacted by this service, or may be in the future, please take a few minutes to complete this short survey and help us to show the NHS what the community wants and needs from them. Please share this link with anyone who might also be impacted by access to NHS hair removal services - https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ZLY56F2
Want to get active? LEAP Sports have produced a handy flyer for lots of fantastic sports and physical activity groups for those who are inexperienced, and experienced, so delve in and see if there’s something you fancy https://leapsports.org/uploads/3758-LEAP%202.pdf
NEWS FROM LGBT HEALTH AND WELLBEING
We are recruiting! Development Worker (LGBT Self Management Project) We are seeking to recruit a motivated, enthusiastic and experienced person to develop and deliver the exciting LGBT Mental Wellbeing Project. You will work closely with community members and partners to deliver a programme of workshops, events and peer support groups aimed at empowering and supporting LGBT people with mental health needs. Join us if you are passionate about the issues faced by LGBT people in Scotland, are committed to community development, and want to help us to deliver our ambitious vision for LGBT health, wellbeing and equality in Scotland. For more information visit: http://www.lgbthealth.org.uk/vacancies/
January to March events programme available now Find out what’s on this quarter, with LGBTQI events, workshops and groups in Edinburgh and Glasgow - www.lgbthealth.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2017/11/January-March-2018-Programme-Web.pdf
LGBT Helpline Scotland Launches new Trans-Friendly Messenger Service! LGBT Helpline Scotland is launching a new online messenger service for LGBT+ adults and their families and supporters across Scotland. Our volunteers are fully trained in trans issues and can be a source of emotional support if you’re in need of a confidential chat, or can provide information about trans-supportive services and social groups right across Scotland. This 6-month pilot will run on a weekly basis, every Tuesday from 12-9pm. To access the messenger service, you simply need to simply visit our website http://www.lgbthealth.org.uk/helpline - and say hello to us via the pop-up messenger box!
EVENTS COMING UP FOR TRANS PEOPLE, INCLUDING NON-BINARY PEOPLE
T time Glasgow Saturday 1-4pm, next meeting 13th January, 12 Queens Crescent, Glasgow, G4 9AS - Free (Please note: RE-SCHEDULED DATE ONLY FOR JANUARY) An informal social gathering open to all trans people, their friends, families and supporters. Come along for tea/coffee and a chat plus an optional event or activity in a friendly, relaxed environment. For more information contact Katrina at katrina@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0141 271 2330.
Equal Recognition Saturday 1-4pm, 13th January (within T time Glasgow), 12 Queens Crescent, Glasgow, G4 9AS Welcoming Vic Valentine (Scottish Trans Alliance) and Simon Stockwell (Scottish Government) to discuss the current consultation on reforms to the Gender Recognition Act. It’s a great chance to find out about this really important opportunity to improve equality in Scotland for trans people, and how to contribute to it (if you haven’t already)! Please note: T time Glasgow returns to the 1st Saturday of the month from February.
T time Edinburgh Saturday 1-4pm, next meeting 20th January, 9 Howe Street, Edinburgh, EH6 3TE - Free An informal monthly social gathering open to all transgender people and supporters. Come along for tea/ coffee and a chat in a friendly, relaxed environment. An optional event runs along each T time, please see below for details on this month’s activity. For further information contact Jules via jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0131 523 1104
Equal Recognition Saturday 2-3pm, (within T time) 20th January, 9 Howe Street, Edinburgh, EH6 3TE Welcoming James Morton and Vic Valentine (Scottish Trans Alliance) to discuss the current consultation on reforms to the Gender Recognition Act. It’s a great chance to find out about this really important opportunity to improve equality in Scotland for trans people, and how to contribute to our group response as well providing your own.
GTSP Creative Planning Meeting Tuesday 6-8pm, 23rd January, 12 Queens Crescent, Glasgow, G4 9AS Come along and help us shape the programme for the next quarter for the Glasgow Trans Support Programme. We read through all the feedback and suggestions from the community and take it from there – if you’d like to come to this, please let Katrina know in advance katrina@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0141 271 2330.
Transition Support Course (Edinburgh) 2018: Last few spaces available… Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th January, 10.30am-5pm St Margaret’s House, Floor B1, 151 London Rd, EH7 6AE (Wheelchair accessible) Booking essential: http://tinyurl.com/transsupportcourse2018 or contact Jules to request a registration form. Free, 2-day non-residential course for anyone who self-identifies as having trans, including nonbinary gender identities. The course will provide safe and supportive opportunities to learn more about your options and rights, meet and connect with others, share your experiences and take part in confidence building workshops. For more information: E: jules@lgbthealth.org.uk T: 0131 523 1104
Headucation! Makeup and Hair Workshop Saturday 2-6pm, 27th January, Tramway, Stables Studio, 25 Albert Drive, Glasgow, G41 2PE - Free Makeup artist Molly Sheridan and hair stylist Rochelle Jolley will host a relaxed afternoon all about hair, makeup and the world of salons. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, expect a glam afternoon of tips, demos, product information, one to one consultations and conviviality. The venue is wheelchair accessible. Booking preferred: www.tinyurl.com/headucation For more information contact Katrina at katrina@lgbthealth.org.uk or call 0141 271 2330.
Trans Practical Skills Programme for Spring 2018 In February and March we are planning an exciting Programme of one-off sessions designed to help trans people to pick up new practical skills in relation to transition. We’re going to be offering one off sessions in Self-Acceptance, Barbering, Make-up and Fitness. To find out more information about the other sessions taking place in Feb and March please contact annette@lgbthealth.org.uk Trans Practical Skills: Self-acceptance skills, a confidence building workshop for trans including non-binary people Saturday 11am-4pm, 10th March, The Melting Pot Booking essential, place limited via: https://tinyurl.com/transaccept The workshop will explore why it can be difficult to feel accepting of being a trans person, how we can begin to recognise unhelpful thinking that relates to that and provide a space to consider creative strategies for how people can practice accepting themselves. Places are limited so please book early to arrange a place. For more information contact: alison@lgbthealth.org.uk.
LGBTQI EVENT HIGHLIGHTS COMING UP - full programme via www.lgbthealth.org.uk
LGBTQ Yoga Saturdays weekly 6-7pm - first class of the year on 13th January (sessions planned until 10th March) Santosa Yoga Studio, 21 Albert St, Edinburgh, EH7 5LH Free community yoga group for LGBTQ people (16+) Trans and gender queer friendly Led by experienced Edinburgh Community Yoga teacher, Amy Hughes. Group Contact: amy@atha-yoga.co.uk Please book via email. Equipment provided. Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LGBTQYogaEdinburgh/
LGBTQ Swimming Saturdays 3 Feb - 31st March (includes family-friendly Party in the Pool event on March 3rd) In partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, we are offering 5 exclusive sessions for LGBT swimmers and their friends. Steam and sauna rooms will also be available and we’re hosting an extra special family-friendly Party in the Pool for LGBT History Month on Saturday 3rd March. Booking is via: www.bit.ly/LGBTswim2018
Sign of the Times: Conversations about LGBT identities and the D/deaf community Saturday 1.30-4pm, 24th February, Serenity Café, 8 Jackson’s Entry, The Tun, EH8 8PJ Book online: www.tinyurl.com/LGBTdeaf An opportunity for LGBT D/deaf people to discuss their needs and the D/deaf community to learn more about LGBT identities, in a safe and supportive space. BSL provided throughout and attendees are welcome to bring their hearing BSL friends.
TRANS COMMUNITY GROUPS - based at 9 Howe Street, Edinburgh, EH3 6TE Edinburgh Trans Women 1st Saturday of the month 7.30-9.30pm, next meeting 3rd February, 9 Howe Street, EH3 6TE Support group aimed at transsexual women at any stage of transition, women who are transgender and live as women full-time or part-time or for those who are questioning their gender identity. We look forward to meeting you and prefer that you email us the first time you want to visit the group. This helps with security and helps us get ready to welcome you. Group contact: info@edinburghtranswomen.org.uk
Trans Masculine Scotland Social meet-ups for trans men and nonbinary folks who identify as trans-masculine. Events are free and for aged 16+ only. To stay up to date with the group’s events and members, visit www.facebook.com/transmasculinescotland. For more information and to let us know you would like to come along, contact the group. Group contact: transmasculinescotland@gmail.com
Me and T Scotland 4th Sunday of the month 2-4pm, next meeting 28th January, 9 Howe Street, Edinburgh, EH3 6TE Me and T Scotland is a supportive space for people who have friends, family or partners who are transgender or exploring their gender, and provides an opportunity to meet other people who may have similar experiences, questions or concerns. Group contact: me.and.t.scotland@gmail.com Also read more about the group here: http://meandtscotland.wordpress.com/
TRANS GROUPS MEETING ACROSS SCOTLAND: support - social - youth - spiritual Beyond Gender Tuesday evenings from 7–9pm Tuesday evenings 7–9pm Group for transgender, non binary and intersex people and their friends aged 13–25. We provide opportunities for young people aged 13 – 25 and their peers to meet, have fun and access appropriate information, support and learning opportunities, as well as providing opportunities for people to participate in local and national decision making. And have fun in a safe space where they can be themselves. Contact: gemma.moncrieff@lgbtyouth.org.uk or visit https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/edinburgh
InfiniT (Beyond Gender Unders) Fortnightly Mondays, 5.30-7.30pm A new group for transgender, non-binary, intersex and questioning young people aged 11-16. A space for people to meet, have fun and to let us know if they need support at school. Contact E: ann.marriott@lgbtyouth.org.uk Tel: 0131 5553940 W: https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/edinburgh
Central Scotland Transgender Group This has been very successful since it started and is now focused on providing a public venue for those of who are finding your confidence and, with the other groups, seeks to provide another step in your journey. We are open to ALL in the Trans Community, both male and female, with the usual proviso that we all dress smartly and behave appropriately, as befits a public venue. Contact Sarah: sarah_m_whyte@yahoo.co.uk
Dundee Trans Collective Dundee Trans Collective is a newly founded group for trans people in the Dundee area. We have a Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1446765165613427), and anyone who is transgender and/or non-binary and/or intersex, who is questioning their gender identity or who wants to learn how to be a better ally to the trans community is welcome to join, wherever they live. We're hoping to set up some offline meet ups and events in Dundee in the near future as well. We also have an email address for anyone that isn't comfortable joining the Facebook group and would prefer to ask questions or get in touch more privately. Contact: transandintersexdundee@gmail.com
Four Pillars: New leaflet and support details for Trans people in Grampian We have been working away quietly in the background and are very pleased to announce all the new services and groups now available through Four Pillars. Grampian T-Folk: We have teamed up with Grampian T-folk to bring a new social group for the trans community. Where people can meet others, share and learn. Grampian T-folk also offer support via online services for more details please email mail@fourpillarsuk.org TransParent: A new support group for parents of transgender individuals. No matter how old your 'child' is coming out as trans has an effect on parents, in both good and bad ways. The group meet every month to share stories, learn how to support their loved ones and grow together. Get questions answered by those that have/are going through the same thing. We have also been updating our website (slowly) please take a look to find out more about the above groups or any other services we offer across Grampian.
Edinburgh Trans Women 1st Saturday of the month, 7.30-9.30pm, next meeting 3rd February, 9 Howe Street, EH3 6TE Support group aimed at transsexual women at any stage of transition, women who are transgender and live as women full-time or part-time or for those who are questioning their gender identity. We look forward to meeting you and prefer you to email us the first time you want to visit. This helps with security and helps us get ready to welcome you. Group contact: info@edinburghtranswomen.org.uk
Grampian T Folk meets 1st Sunday of the month Laugh, share experiences, have fun and meet other transgender folk for activities, to understand and to learn. Get in touch for full details! Group contact: mail@fourpillars.org.uk
Me and T Scotland 4th Sunday of the month 2-4pm, next meeting 28th January (no meeting in December) Me and T Monthly is a supportive space for people who have friends, family or partners who are transgender or exploring their gender, and provides an opportunity to meet other people who may have similar experiences, questions or concerns. Group contact: me.and.t.scotland@gmail.com Also read more about the group here: http://meandtscotland.wordpress.com/
Our Tribe Transgender and looking for a supportive place to explore or express your faith? OUR TRIBE is the LGBT welcoming and affirming Christian ministry at Augustine United Church, Edinburgh. It is a joint ministry with worldwide denomination of Metropolitan Community Churches. All are welcome - friends, family and allies. We meet on the last Saturday of each month and start at 7pm. Please feel free to arrive from 6.30/45pm at Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EL. If you would like further information contact Rev Maxwell Reay ourtribe.auc@gmail.com or call 07957 543359
Perth Transgender Group The Perth Transgender Group meets on the first Saturday of each month and is open to anyone who identifies as trans or is a friend or family member. Meetings are at the Grampian Hotel, York Place, Perth and start at around 7.00pm. There is a Facebook page for this Group called “Transgender Perth Scotland”, so please visit us there to find out more.
TG Times monthly on a Sunday, Dumfries This is an adult social group that welcomes any person who is adult and identifies as Transgender, including those who are questioning their identity or are cross-dressing. Please note that partners and supporters of Trans people are now welcome at the groups. The group meets one Sunday of each month between 12-3pm at the Birkhill Hotel, Dumfries. For more info contact D&G LGBT Centre on 01387 255 058. For information on time and venue please contact the D&G LGBT Centre on: 01387 255 058 or email dandg@lgbtyouth.org.uk Also to keep up to date on what’s happening at the D&G LGBT center checkout our website www.lgbtcentredg.co.uk or add us on Facebook: Dumfries LGBT Centre.
Transgender Fife 1st Saturday of the month, 2-4.30pm Transgender Fife - new community group in Fife for adults (16 years plus). (Venues alternate between Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline) Next Meeting: please email for details! We welcome all trans people including those who are nonbinary. Intersex people are also welcome. We meet on the 1st Saturday of the month in alternate venues in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline for friendship, sharing information and creating future ideas for group events. You are welcome to bring along an ally/supporter on your first visit. New members are asked to contact us in advance at transgenderfife@outlook.com.
TransparenTsees (West)– group for parents of trans people 1st Thursday of the month, 6-8pm The aim of the group, which has been set up by parents, is to provide a confidential, safe place for parents to meet, discuss issues and ask questions of one another. You may just have found out that your child, whether young or grown-up, is trans*, or you may still be grappling with the issues after many years of knowing – the group is for all parents. Meetings will be held regularly at 2 nd Floor at Sandyford, 2-6 Sandyford Place, Glasgow G3 7NB Contact: TransparenTsees@gmail.com for more details.
TransparenTsees (East) TransparenTsees East is aimed at supporting families of young transgender, non-binary and children questioning their gender, meeting 1st Monday of the month, 6-8pm (Please get in contact if you wish to attend) Contact: TransparenTsees@gmail.com
TransparenTsees (Tayside) We are delighted to give details of Transparentsees Tayside. They meet at 6.15-8.15pm on the 3rd Thursday of the month at Mindspace, 18-20 York Place, Perth, PH2 8EH. Contact: transparentsees@gmail.com
Trans Masculine Scotland Social meet-ups for trans men and non-binary folks who identify as trans-masculine. Events are free and for aged 16+ only. To stay up to date with the group’s events and members, visit www.facebook.com/transmasculinescotland. For more information and to let us know you would like to come along, contact the group. Group contact: transmasculinescotland@gmail.com
Trans Youth D&G Monthly on a Saturday, 88B High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BJ, Trans Youth D&G: our youth group for young people 12-26 who identify under the Transgender umbrella and their supportive friends meets one Saturday of each month from 1-4pm at the LGBT Centre, Dumfries. These dates activity dependant so please get in touch for more info. 1:1 support sessions for young people and or parents: are also available upon request for young trans people who may need support around their identity as are 121 support sessions for parents/ carers of young trans people who may need support in supporting around trans identities.
Parents group: We are currently setting up a parents group for parents of trans young people in D&G so please get in touch for more info on this. The contact for young people and parents in D&G is julieann.karayilan@lgbtyouth.org.uk or call our centre and ask for Julie Ann – 01387 255 058.
TYG: Trans Youth Glasgow For young trans people or those exploring, aged 13-26 TYG: Trans* Youth Glasgow is a group for young people aged 13 - 26 who identify as transgender or want to explore their gender identity. The group meets fortnightly on a Monday evening at LGBT Youth Scotland in Glasgow. The group aims to support and empower young people as they take part in workshops on transgender issues, sharing their own knowledge, skills and experience, learning from each other and making new friends. For more info contact Michael Richardson at Michael.Richardson@lgbtyouth.org.uk
Waverley Care Argyll & Bute We provide one to one support for people living in Argyll & Bute who are trans or exploring their gender identity. Occasional peer support too! Please get in touch with Katrina: katrina.mitchell@waverleycare.org or 07760701308.
TRANS & NON-BINARY NEWS & EVENTS ACROSS SCOTLAND Please get in touch if you would like to promote a not-for-profit event, activity, group or campaign you are involved with, for the transgender community anywhere across Scotland - jules@lgbthealth.org.uk
Equal Recognition - have you say https://consult.gov.scot/family-law/review-of-the-genderrecognition-act-2004/ Scottish Trans Alliance and Equality Network are calling for the reform of the Gender Recognition Act. We are calling for the Scottish Government to recognise trans people’s right to self-determination. We know that achieving these calls will not resolve all trans equality and human rights issues – there is other work to be done. These three calls are key strategic priorities and are all within the power of the Scottish Government to act upon. Three calls for trans equality: 1. Introduce legal recognition for people who do not identify as men or women The law should be improved to provide legal recognition and identity documents to people who identify as other than men or women. No one should be forced to have a gender listed on their birth certificate or passport which does not correspond to how they actually live and identify. Many countries already legally recognise that some people do not identify as men or women and provide them with legal documents, such as birth certificates and passports, which respect their non-binary gender. (Having a non-binary gender identity is not the same as being a physically intersex person.) 2. Remove the psychiatric diagnosis requirement from legal gender recognition
Trans people can change their gender on their passports and other day-to-day documents without having to see a psychiatrist. However, the process to change legal gender on a birth certificate requires an applicant to receive a psychiatric diagnosis and to provide a detailed psychiatric report about their life history, current circumstances and identity in order to prove that diagnosis. This unnecessary and intrusive requirement undermines the personal autonomy of trans people because it places psychiatrists into the inappropriate role of gatekeepers to legal rights. Psychiatry should be about helping people improve their mental health and not about deciding which trans people merit access to their human rights. 3. Reduce the age at which people can get legal recognition of the gender they live as Currently a young person under the age of 18 cannot apply for a gender recognition certificate to correct the gender listed on their birth certificate. This undermines their self-esteem, violates their privacy and exposes them to discrimination. Significant numbers of young people are living successfully in a new gender with the full support of their parents and school teachers. Although they could easily satisfy all of the conditions required to receive gender recognition young people are discriminated against because of their age.
Download our campaign briefing to learn more about the Equal Recognition Campaign: https://www.scottishtrans.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Equal-Recognition-Briefing.pdf Complete the consultation form on the reform of the Gender Recognition Act 2014: https://consult.gov.scot/family-law/review-of-the-gender-recognition-act2004/consultation/subpage.2016-07-07.1474135251/
Self-Duet Album! I've released an album of folk/fantasy songs (written for a Live Role Play setting originally) featuring my before - and - after transition singing voices together. You can take a listen here https://jamiejaygould.bandcamp.com/album/battleforged Cheers, Jamie