Charity calls for immediate action following findings in new report
HAPPINESS in the trans community in Scotland has fallen by over 50% in a decade according to the largest-ever piece of research into trans youth.
The worrying results come from the largest piece of research involving LGBTQ+ young people and reveal the different realities and challenges encountered by trans young people in Scotland.
Published by LGBT Youth Scotland, the report paints a stark picture of the trans community in Scotland and the charity is now calling for immediate action from public bodies to tackle the issues at hand.
The latest report comes as part of the Life in Scotland for LGBT Young People research project, which surveyed over 1,200 people aged between 13-25, with detailed reports covering education, health and rural issues published in 2023.
Dr Mhairi Crawford, Chief Executive of LGBT Youth Scotland said: “Unfortunately the findings of this report don’t come as a surprise to a lot of us deeply involved with LGBTQ+ young people.
“This report makes a clear and compelling case for immediate action to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of trans young people in Scotland.
“The recommendations outlined must be adopted by policymakers, public institutions, and civil society to ensure trans inclusion is meaningfully addressed across all communities.
“Initiatives such as the LGBT Charter should be leveraged to drive real change and create truly welcoming spaces. Crucially, dedicated funding is needed to establish safe spaces where trans youth can access support.
“We urge the Scottish Government and other public bodies to take this report seriously. We have long needed protection and support for young trans people in Scotland and calls for this have fallen on deaf ears, we need a change now to ensure we are creating a better future for our young people.”
The report highlights that access to public services emerges as a critical issue, particularly in healthcare, where trans people report a lack of respect and support compared to cisgender individuals.
Key problems include non-inclusive standard procedures, lengthy waiting lists for care, and a general lack of understanding from healthcare staff, despite some efforts to be supportive.
One young person surveyed said: “The lack of full societal acceptance certainly affects my sense of safety in public.
“I’m very proud of who I am and to be part of the LGBTQ community but it does come at the cost of feeling safe in public, I for one have notified the difference from before I came out to now.”
Additionally, the report calls for Police Scotland to address past failings with an apology and action plan for homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.
Mhairi added: “Right now, young trans individuals in Scotland are navigating a world where they feel unsafe in public spaces, misunderstood by healthcare providers, and not taken seriously by law enforcement. This situation is unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue as the norm.
“We need trans issues to be prioritised by organisations that work with the public and tools such as the LGBT Charter should be used to help them reform their policies and practices.”
The report highlights vulnerability among trans individuals using public transport in Scotland, with only 40% feeling safe and many feeling compelled to change their appearance for a sense of security.
Additionally, 72% of participants view transphobia as a major issue, with one in five trans individuals leaving education due to homophobia, and less than half feeling safe to express their true selves at work or in educational settings.
LGBT Youth Scotland is the national charity dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ young people across Scotland.
Serving LGBTQ+ individuals aged 13-25, the charity recognises the distinct challenges these young people face in achieving their full potential.
Through its efforts, LGBT Youth Scotland aims to dismantle these barriers, fostering an environment where every young person can succeed.
By working directly with young individuals and elevating their voices in a collective call for progress, the organisation strives to realise a vision of Scotland where all young people can flourish and thrive.
For more information on LGBT Youth Scotland, visit: https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/
To read the Trans Report 2024, visit: https://lgbtyouth.org.uk/life-in-scotland-trans-report/
