What are support groups?

A trans-inclusive or trans-focused group that meets on a regular basis to discuss issues relating to gender identity, to share problems, resources and solutions, and to offer support to one another.

What do support groups do?

• Mood

  Reduced distress

How can support groups help me?

Support groups can:

• provide a safe place to discuss your experiences
• give you a chance to meet other trans people
• be a useful source of practical information

How do I find support groups near me?

The following might run support groups or be able to give you a list of local ones:

• NHS gender services
• local LGBTQIA+ organisations
• trans support services
• university LGBTQIA+ societies or networks
• other local trans people
• your GP

These sites list social and support groups you could consider visiting:

• London: The Trans Dimension
• Manchester: The Trans Dimension
• Scotland: LGBT Health and Wellbeing What’s On Calendar
• Wales: Umbrella Cymru Social Groups page

You can find a directory of groups in other parts of the country on the GIRES website.

Some support groups run online:

• Beyond Reflections Online Trans, Non-binary and Questioning Group (England and Wales only)
• Bloom run by LGBT Hero (UK-wide)
• Waiting List Warriors run by Gendered Intelligence for people on a waiting list for a NHS gender service

The following groups specifically focus on mental health:

• Peer support groups run by MindOut (Brighton and Hove only)
• “Imago” run by ELOP (London/Greater London only)

What should I be aware of?

Support groups vary in their format, focus and size, although most groups will give you the opportunity to discuss your experiences and to listen to others.

Before attending a support group it is a good idea to contact the person leading it to find out more. Here are some questions to consider:

• Is it a trans-focused group or an LGBTQIA+ group?
• How many people usually attend?
• Will you be expected to speak, or can you just listen?
• What issues will the support group cover?
• What do the meetings involve?
• Do you need someone to go with you as support?

Are there other options?

Other sources of support you could consider are:

• one-to-one trans support services
• social groups
• counselling
• youth groups

Errors and omissions

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