First Steps

First Steps is a structured program for individuals awaiting their first appointment at the Exeter/Laurels Gender Identity Clinic. It aims to support those who may feel isolated and are in the early stages of exploring their gender identity and transition.

We want to help you build meaningful connections and feel supported during this stage of your journey. We also aim to create a space where your group can stay in touch and continue supporting one another, recognising how lonely and uncertain the waiting period can sometimes feel.

This is an introductory 4-session programme over 10-weeks to support you after joining the waiting list for gender healthcare.

The group is there to support you with reducing a sense of isolation, to build connections with peers with shared experiences and to demystify the Gender Identity Clinic process. It will also include information to help you set additional goals along the way and reduce the hopelessness that can arise from long waits.

Some of the areas we will cover are:

Demystifying the wait list and what happens at the gender clinic
Looking at social transition, including deed polls, style and clothing
Exploring self-care and wellbeing
Community support - how you and those in your First Steps group can support each other along the journey

Group Logistics

15-participants per group.
It is important that you can attend all sessions.
All sessions will be online via Zoom.

Apply to join group

First Steps is part of our Waiting Well project, a service from Gendered Intelligence and LGBT Foundation to support trans and non-binary adults in South West England.