Trans: Transsexuality and Transgenderism

‘Trans’ is an umbrella term used to describe anyone who breaks away from one or more of society's expectations around sex and gender. These expectations include that everyone is either a man or a woman, that one's gender is fixed, that gender is fixed to their biological sex , and that our behaviours are linked to our gender. Please note the distinction between sex and gender. Sex can be viewed as the physical form and function while Gender is a component of identity: what makes us ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’.

Trans has no connection with sexuality other than some transsexuals are lesbian, gay or bisexual ­ a trans person could be at any place on the sexuality spectrum just like anyone else. However, not feeling confident about your sex and/or your gender can make it difficult to choose your sexuality. This can make decisions around gender and sex especially difficult for trans people.

Transexuality

A transsexual is a person who is born with the physical characteristics of one sex but the gender (or mind) of the opposite sex. There are an estimated 35,000 to 65,000 people in the UK who feel convinced that they have been born into the wrong body. Whilst we often use the physical sex to categorise somebody as male or female, this is not the full picture. In some people their physical sex may not reflect how they feel or how they define their gender. This can cause confusion for the person, which is exacerbated as they grow up and everybody treats them as male or female because of how they look - even if that is not how they feel. This real identity often remains hidden, usually because of fear and sometimes guilt, until that person is older.

Some transsexuals will choose to have surgery to change the way they look to the way they feel. For example, if a baby is born male ,but as he grows up feels female ,he may choose to have surgery. This is often referred to as a ‘male to female’ (M2F) transsexual. Similarly, if a baby is born female but as she grows up feels male she may choose to have surgery. This is often referred to as a ‘female to male’ (F2M) transsexual. The medical process is commonly called a ‘sex change’ or more appropriately ‘the transition process’. The decision to have surgery can be a very difficult one to make and is only allowed when the individual is sufficiently informed to make the choice as to whether they want to live life as a different sex. The process requires the support of family, friends and work colleagues. However, many transsexuals lack this support and can often feel isolated.

Transgenderism

A trangenderist is a specific term for someone who identifies with the opposite gender but does not want (or is unable for financial or biological reasons and even plain fear) to change his or her sex. Some transgenderists may begin the sex change process (for example, by having hormone replacement therapy) but do not complete the full set of medical procedures.

In the past trans people have had difficulties in law because they could not change their gender on their birth certificate.  New legislation has been introduced that allows trans people to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate which will update the Registrar General.  From this a new birth certificate with your new gender and name can be issued. This process does not depend on the person having undergone gender reassignment surgery.

Trans: Links and Helplines:

Gender Recognition Panel
The panel assesses applications from transsexual people for legal recognition of the gender in which they now live. They can provide advice on the application process and the necessary forms and guidance.
Phone: 0845 355 5155
Website: www.grp.gov.uk
E-mail: grpenquiries@dca.gsi.gov.uk

TransEssex International
Telephone helpline offering support and befriending to transvestites, transgendered, transsexuals, their partners and their families.
Phone: 01268 583761 (Wednesday and Sunday 7pm -10pm)

The FTM Network
The FTM Network is an informal and ad hoc self help group, open to all female to male transgender and transsexual people, or those exploring this aspect of their gender.
Address: FTM Network, BM Network, London WC1N 3XX
Website: www.ftm.org.uk
E-mail: membership@ftm.org.uk
Helpline: 0161 432 1915 (Wednesday evening between 8pm and 10.30pm)

The Beaumont Society
The Beaumont Society is the longest established Transvestite/Crossdressing support group in the UK.  The society has a network of representatives spread throughout the country who are able to offer advice and have details of meetings and activities in their area.
Address: 27 Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N 3XX
Website: www.beaumontsociety.org.uk
E-mail: enquiries@beaumontsociety.org.uk
Helpline: 01582 412220 (Tuesday and Thursday between 7pm-11pm - there is an answer phone on at all other times)

Gender Trust
The Gender Trust is the only Registered Charity in the UK which specifically helps people who are Transsexual, Gender Dysphoric or Transgenderist, i.e. those who seek to adjust their lives to live as women or men, or to come to terms with their situation despite their genetic background. They also offer help to those who are Intersexes, and try to provide care for the partners and families of all these individuals.  They also operate a Trust membership scheme.
Address: PO Box 3192, Brighton, BN1 3WR.
Website: www.gendertrust.org.uk
E-mail: info@gendertrust.org.uk
Anonymous e-mail service: anonymous@gendertrust.org.uk
Helpline: 0845 2310 505 (Monday - Friday 10am - 10pm, Saturday and Sunday 1pm - 10pm)

Mermaids
Mermaids is an organisation that supports young people who are trying to cope with gender dysphoria issues.  They also provide help and support to their families or carers.
Address: BM Mermaids, London, WC1N 3XX
Website: www.mermaids.freeuk.com
E-mail: mermaids@freeuk.com
Helpline: 07020 935066 (Monday - Saturday 3pm - 7pm)

Press for Change
A political lobbying and educational organisation, which campaigns to achieve equal civil rights and liberties for all transgender people in the United Kingdom, through legislation and social change.
Address: BM network, London, WC1N 3XX
Website: www.pfc.org.uk
E-mail: editor@pfc.org.uk

Queer Youth Alliance
The Queer Youth Alliance is a national organisation that campaigns for equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans young people.  They provide support information and a range of professional services as well as providing a useful website.
Address: c/o Manchester Gay Centre, 49-51 Sidney Street, Manchester, M2 7HB
Website: www.queeryouth.org.uk
E-mail: info@queeryouth.org.uk