TransForm

Since 2014, Youth Cymru has delivered TransForm Cymru, a ground-breaking project supporting trans and non-binary young people to take action on their passions, concerns and aspirations.

Trans young people have created their own film and theatre projects, met with senior Welsh Government decision-makers, advised the media on positive trans representation and presented at national conferences and events. The project is underpinned by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and supports organisations to develop and strengthen trans-inclusive policy and practice, though information, guidance and training.

The project was shortlisted at the Welsh Government Youth Work Excellence Awards (2016).

Belong (a partnership between Youth Cymru and The Amber Project) provides support, workshops and counselling for trans, non-binary and questioning young people (aged 12-25) in Cardiff who would like support with their emotional well-being.

We run creative workshops in a friendly, caring and supportive environment. Workshops take place on a Thursday evening in central Cardiff; our group for young people ages 12-16 runs 4:30-6pm, followed by our group for young people ages 17-25 from 7:30-9pm.

We also have a counselling and support service.

For more information, or to make a referral, please contact Julia Griffiths - Julia@youthcymru.org.uk

Since the start of the project, young people from TransForm have created a performance and short film based on their experiences, led trans awareness training sessions with young people and practitioners and met with the Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty to inform the Welsh Government Transgender Action Plan. The group has enabled trans young people to meet and socialise with their peers, develop skills and confidence and make a real difference to the lives of others.

“This project has been an incredible experience so far. It was my first opportunity to really get to know other trans identified individuals, all of whom I now consider to be close friends. The project itself has provided us all with the opportunity to voice our concerns and hopes for young trans people in Wales and has enabled us to develop the skills to bring about change in our communities and beyond. I myself have grown in confidence and done things I never thought I was capable of before.”

“Before I joined the group I was very alone and now I can’t say that.”

“I’m more confident and I’ve got more friends than I’ve ever had in my life. I’m now involved in something whereas before I was just sat at home.”