Election post
I have previous experience representing trans students in UCL, co-presenting the Trans Experiences in Accomodation Project (which can be seen online!), in which we highlighted distressing and/or discriminatory aspects of signing up for and living in UCL accommodation, as well as proposing solutions to help trans tenants feel safer and more accepted whilst living in Halls.
I am also very much aware of the current support services available in the UK for trans individuals, and those offered by UCL, and am intimately acquainted with the trans healthcare pathways in the UK.
If elected, I would like to increase awareness of several support options offered by UCL for trans students through both online and in-person signposting, as there is extremely little signposting for some methods of support (e.g. free mentoring via gendered intelligence).
Furthermore, alongside the wider UCLSU, I would continue to emphasise to UCL that any and all forms of trans hate are unacceptable, and should be dealt with accordingly. Trans students feeling safe at UCL is not a privilege, it is a basic right that ALL students should hold, whether cisgender or transgender.
I started my transition at age 16, and started HRT at age 18, whilst still studying for my A-levels. I am extremely aware of the privileged position I am in, transitioning so early. I fervently believe that trans healthcare should be a basic right, not a privilege. I hope to help trans students navigate UK healthcare options, should they wish it. However, I also believe that trans students who do not wish to medically transition should feel just as valid and accepted, not just within trans communities, but by the wider UCL community, as such students may experience increased discrimination.