The LGBT Network Staffordshire is a local charity based in Hanley, giving support and advice to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans people around Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire .
LGBT Network Staffordshire is organising a conference, "Life in Trans: To develop best practice for Transgender issues in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire" on the 4th of February 2011 at The North Staffordshire Conference Centre in Hartshill Stoke-on-Trent.
The aim of the is conference to highlight and address many of the issues Trans people face in day to day life. This includes Hate Crime ranging from being called names in the street to, in its most extreme form, Trans people being killed just for being themselves. Employment for many people in today's climate is hard, but for many trans people the extra pitfalls and problems being faced can make finding a job an impossible task.
One of the greatest and hardest tests for Trans people is navigating the long and difficult transition pathway which, from the first GP's visit, can take 6-7 years. This is a difficult experience for every Trans person as they undertake real life experience, find their body changing through hormone treatments and surgery. This process is often being exasperated by a pathway which is very difficult to access, GP's who do not understand the issues, and long waiting times. These problems and many others can lead to crippling depression which makes all of these issues even more difficult.
The conference will address all of these issues and offer best practice from leading specialists from around the country. Key Note speakers Bernard & Terry Reed OBE from GIRES (Gender Identity Research and Education Society) will be delivering a talk on based on in-depth research on best practice for PCT's in the transition process and the sustained rapid growth in Trans people seeking medical care. They will be joined by a representative from the Police who will be discussing Transphobic Hate Crime and our role in combating it and Carol Robson who will be talking about the best practice in employing Trans people for organisations.
For this unique event we are asking for the small donation of £20 per delegate to attend. However as we hope many members of the Trans community can attend delegates from this community can join us for free. With the recent additions the Equality Act 2010 has made to the law and the additional roles and responsibilities on service providers, employers and businesses, this conference is not to be missed.
For more information or to book one of the limited spaces please call 01782 266998 or email info@gaystoke.com
