Gender
Gender is an important aspect of identity that applies to all individuals, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). People with SEND, like everyone else, have a gender identity that is a core part of who they are. Gender identity refers to how a person sees and experiences themselves in terms of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum.
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Just like everyone else, individuals with SEND have the right to identify and express their gender in a way that feels true to them. Respect their self-identification and use the pronouns and terms they prefer. Professionals working with individuals with disabilities should be aware of the legal and ethical implications surrounding issues of consent, capacity, and safeguarding.
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Depending on the individual's communication abilities, they might express their gender identity differently. Some may use words, gestures, or visual aids to communicate their gender identity.
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Creating a supportive environment that embraces diversity and inclusion is crucial. Educators, caregivers, and peers should foster an atmosphere where individuals with SEND can explore and express their gender identity without fear of discrimination.
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Encourage gender-related activities that are inclusive and respectful of everyone's identity. Avoid enforcing traditional gender roles or expectations that may not align with an individual's identity.
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Provide accessible information about gender diversity and identity that matches the individual's communication style and understanding level. This can help them navigate their own identity and understand others' experiences.
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In educational settings, promote gender-inclusive policies, curricula, and activities. Address topics related to gender diversity and identity in a way that respects the diversity of the students.
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Advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with SEND in broader discussions about gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. This can help raise awareness and promote change at societal levels.
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When providing support to individuals with SEND, consult with them and their caregivers about matters related to gender identity. Respect their input and preferences while ensuring their privacy.
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Just as it's important to avoid stereotyping in any context, be mindful of avoiding assumptions about an individual's gender identity based on their disability or communication abilities.
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If you're unsure about how to best support someone with SEND in matters related to gender identity, seek guidance from experts, resources, and organisations that specialise in both fields. For more information visit Brook.org
Coming out
"Coming out" is when someone tells others about their LGBT+ identity. This means they say if they're gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, or if their gender is different from what people thought when they were born. We do this because many people think everyone is straight and feels the same way they look.
Most people feel the same inside as what they look like. This is called "cisgender" or "cis" for short. "Straight" means someone likes people from a different gender.
Coming out is not the same for everyone. Some find it easy, while others find it hard. Some tell only friends, not family. You can choose what feels right for you.
Coming out doesn't happen only once. Sometimes, we tell new people we meet, or we learn new things about ourselves.
Sometimes, telling others goes well, but sometimes it doesn't. There's no one way to come out. You don't have to rush. Take your time and tell when you feel ready and safe.
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Pick a time when you feel comfortable and safe. Make sure you have enough time to talk without rushing.
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Think about who you want to tell first. It could be someone you trust and feel close to.
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It's okay to feel nervous. Take deep breaths and remember that you're sharing something important about yourself.
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Share your feelings honestly. You can say something like, "I wanted to tell you that I'm [your identity]."
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People might react in various ways. Some might be surprised, while others might already know. Give them time to process their feelings.
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Talk to someone you trust before and after coming out. It could be a friend, family member, or counselor who can offer comfort.
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If someone reacts negatively, remember that you have the right to set boundaries. You can say, "I need some time to talk later."
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If the person doesn't understand, you can share helpful resources, books, or websites that explain your identity.
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You don't have to come out to everyone at once. Take your time and share when you're ready.
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Coming out is a big deal! Be proud of who you are and celebrate being true to yourself.
Remember, you're sharing something important about yourself, and you deserve support and respect. No matter how others react, what matters most is being honest and true to who you are.
Further Support
Brook
This service is offered to young people under 20.
We are an appointment only clinic. Same day appointments can be made via telephone or at reception during our opening times (pre-appointment assessments may be necessary).
Call 0151 670 0177 to make an appointment or for any enquiries.
Opening hours are:
Monday – Thursday: 3pm until 6pm
Friday: 3pm until 5.30pm
Saturday: 1pm until 3.30pm
14 Whetstone Lane, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 2QR
Website: http://www.brook.org.uk
Please be aware that we do not offer the coil/IUD or IUS and implant services may not be available on the same day.
Health Services in Schools Youth Workers
HSIS Youth Workers are a team of professionally qualified youth workers. The team currently work in Wirral Secondary Schools, Wirral Six Form and Wirral Met College
Each school/college has a designated HSIS Youth Worker that provides young people with an opportunity to access confidential support on any issues which may be affecting them.
We provide support to young people around Building Resilience, Reducing risks, Relationships, Sexual Health (including issuing condoms in some schools) Drugs, Alcohol, Emotional Health and Well-Being, Stress and Anxiety.
To get support in school/ college contact your school pastoral lead of head of year.
New Horizons
New Horizons in Wallasey is a social and support group for LGBTQ+ young people. Get in touch to join or to find more information about New Horizons.
Sexual Health Wirral - NHS
We are working hard to restore our services at this time and appreciate your patience and understanding. Our walk-in wait clinics remain suspended, but care and support is still available - find out more. Telephone assessment line open 8.00am - 5.00pm (Mon - Fri)
Telephone: 0300 123 5474
Let's Work It Out @ The HIVE
LGBTQ+ support group for 13-19 years (up to 25 with additional needs.)
Held at the Hive, for more details please call : 0151 705 8000
If you need help, support or guidance please get in touch:
Email: talktothehive@thehiveyouthzone.org or send us a private message on our Facebook page.
Wirral Youth Zone, named by young people as ‘The Hive’, is a purpose-built facility for young people aged 8 – 19, and up to 25 for those with disabilities. Young people from across Wirral have access to fantastic facilities for a cost of £5 for an annual membership and 50p per visit. The Youth Zone provides a safe environment where young people can come and enjoy themselves and enables young people to raise their aspirations and confidence to create a happier and healthier generation.
SHOUT
Shout is an affiliate of Crisis Text Line® in the UK that provides free, confidential support, 24/7 via text. It’s the first free 24/7 texting service in the UK for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. Shout is available in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
Text SHOUT to 85258 in the UK to text with a trained Crisis Volunteer
or
Text BLUE to 85258 to get resources and sign posting information.
Every texter is connected with a real-life human being trained to bring people from a hot moment to a cool calm place through active listening and collaborative problem-solving. All of our Crisis Volunteers donate their time to helping people in crisis.
LGBT Foundation
Our helpline, as always, will continue to be there for all LGBT people in need. For 45 years our helpline has been a lifeline to hundreds of thousands of people. If you are feeling worried, isolated or alone, know that you can pick up the phone and reach out to us on 0345 3 30 30 30.
The Proud Trust
The Proud Trust are an organisation that is run by and for people who identify as LGBTQ+ they offer excellent resources, support and training.
https://www.theproudtrust.org/
Mermaids UK
Mermaids supports gender-diverse children and young people until their 20th birthday, as well as their families and professionals involved in their care. Support includes parent and young person specific forums, a helpline and a group for young people and parents to attend (once registered)
Stonewall
Stonewall is a national organisation supporting LGBTQ+ rights and fights inequalities. They have a glossary of terms, but young people know themselves best and it is always good to have a conversation with them if you are unsure how they identify or what it means to them.