Help us fund our Trans Youth Group

When a young person begins questioning their gender identity, often they’re the only one in their friend group or school experiencing these feelings. This isolation can lead to low self-confidence, anxiety and depression - it’s hard to be the only person like you that you know! This is especially true today, when trans and non-binary people face increasing transphobia and stigma online and in the media.

“I was so lonely before emerge, y’all are literally amazing friends.”

- Emerge Group member

Since 2015, Birmingham LGBT has ran Emerge, a trans-led youth group for trans, nonbinary and gender questioning people aged 13-19 in the West Midlands. It’s held discussions on topics like self-identity, building self-esteem, Trans and LGBT history and Black History month, hosted a variety of trans-led activities including workshops on writing, zinemaking, personal style and art, and organised paid trips to both Birmingham Pride and Brighton Trans Pride. Crucially, we’ve also been able to provide essential 1-to-1 support for group members, helping them build self-confidence and navigate their identity.

“I've had a great laugh and it's helped me feel less isolated and more accepting of my gender identity.”

- Emerge Group member

Over 80% of group members have reported improved mental wellbeing, less isolation and improved confidence. This important work was funded by grants from Children in Need, and thanks to their help, Emerge has been able to help and empower over 50 young people since it began. This funding stream has now come to an end. Now, we need your help to keep this valuable service running. The money you donate will go towards helping to provide support, affirming experiences and workshops, helping us to keep empowering young trans and non-binary people to be their best, most authentic selves.

“Going to emerge feels like a break from the outside world where I can relax and feel safe. I'm very grateful that I get to go each week.”

- Emerge Group member