Mermaizing Resilience Techniques for Trans Youth

I was delighted to be asked to speak at the Mermaids residential in Scotland recently and deliver a workshop on resilience to trans youth. I'm continually inspired by the work that goes in to building young trans peoples confidence at these events and it was a great pleasure to meet everyone who attended.

Although this was my first time in Scotland with Mermaids, having attended many residential's before I was quite familiar with what to expect and the likely agenda for the weekend. As always there were a host of amazing speakers and events put on throughout the weekend, including a circus performer, it's hard to believe how much information can be crammed into such a short space of time for the parents and children alike.

I was blown away with the level of enthusiasm and engagement from the workshop participants and learned a lot myself on the day, particularly, arming enthusiastic trans youth with squeaky rubber ducks (to call out any negativity heard during the session) may need more careful consideration next time to avoid another shrill cacophony! It was great fun all the same.

It was a real privilege working on resilience, supporting young people and their families to cope with the issues surrounding transgender identity. It is vital work as it can be such an isolating experience and research shows the outcomes are significantly improved for those who have a good support network in place.

Who do you know that could use some support? You don't have to do a lot to make a big difference.