Trans Media Watch - Guidance for the Media

“There aren’t many people affected by this”

There are far more than you might think.

Recent estimates suggest that there are at least 10,000 people in the UK who have been medically treated for gender dysphoria, the majority of whom have transitioned or are doing so. But the numbers of people who are presenting for help with this condition is growing fast, as awareness of its nature and understanding of the help available increases. GIRES - a leading research charity in this area, which works extensively with the Dept of Health and the NHS - has brought together a number of studies and estimated that between 300,000-500,000 people in the UK experience some form of inner gender disquiet (more than population of Belfast, Cardiff or Plymouth). Of this number, it estimates that approximately 60,000-90,000 desire a full change of gender role.

If you haven’t come across many trans people in your life, and are left with the impression that they are rare, there’s a very simple reason. They work very hard to go undetected when they can. To publically reveal their history or feelings can leave them vulnerable to prejudice and hate crime.

Getting it right: best practice in representing trans people and their lives

Defining terms >

A brief glossary >

Derogatory, inappropriate or offensive terminology to avoid >

Approaches to avoid >

Why does any of this matter?

The dangers faced by trans people >

A right to be treated fairly >

Common misunderstandings

Small minority

Keira's Story >