A transsexual is a person who strongly identifies with the opposite gender and who chooses to live as a member of the opposite gender or to become one by surgery.
The term transgender refers to someone who considers that they do not identify strictly to one gender or the other, identifying themselves as neither fully male, nor female. The term transgender includes a number of sub-categories, which, among others, include transsexual, cross-dresser, gender-nonconforming people, transvestite, consciously androgynous people and the term gender dysphoria is often used to explain these tendencies.
Is a support group for gender variant children and teenagers, and also their parents, carers etc. Support and information is given by volunteers who are either themselves parents of such young people, or (by arrangement if appropriate) some of the young people themselves.
A national self help organisation run by and for those who cross-dress or who are transsexual. They welcome all transgender people and their partners, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, creed or colour, and all varieties from nervous new transvestites to those who are experienced and confident in their second gender.
The Gender Trust help adults throughout the UK who are transsexual, gender dysphoric, transgender, or those whose lives are affected by gender identity issues. Call their helpline 0845 231 0505 (local rate, Monday - Friday 10am -10pm, Saturday & Sunday 1pm - 10pm).
Supports those who feel they are confused about their gender and those who are looking for support.
Offers a variety of support services for families where there is a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) issue. They include: a national helpline; family therapy; individual and couple counselling; youth groups and one-to-one support for young people identifying as LGBT. Call the family helpline 0808 1807 223 (free, Monday 9.30am -12:30pm, 3.30 - 6.30pm Thursday 6.30 - 8.30pm) or check out the website.
The London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard
A phone service for anyone in the UK on 0207 837 7324 (daily 10am-11pm). They offer information, support and referrals to lesbians, bisexuals, gay men, transsexuals and straight people wanting information on gay issues.
Depend offer free, confidential and non-judgemental advice, information and support to all family members, spouses, partners and friends of transsexual people in the UK.
Contains lots of helpful information on all sorts of bullying including dealing with bullies who taunt others by text messages.
The National Self Harm Network or NSHN
A survivor-led organisation committed to campaigning for the rights and understanding of people who self-injure. There's plenty of information on their website for men and women who injure themselves, plus very active, mutually supportive, message forums.
The Site aims to be the first place for young adults to turn to when they need support and guidance through life. They believe young people have the capacity to make their own decisions and life choices, provided they have access to high quality, impartial information and advice. You can ask The Site advisers questions of all kinds on relationships, problems with your partner, arguments with your family and much more.
A free helpline and email service helping young people find the best support whatever their problem. It's especially good for anyone thinking of leaving home or has left home already. Call 0808 808 4994 (free from main mobile services, daily 1pm-11pm) or email: help@getconnected.org.uk
Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays or FFLAG
Offer confidential support, information and a sympathetic ear for parents, families, straight partners and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. On their website you'll find details of regional groups under the heading Parents Groups.
Free and confidential for anyone up to the age of 18. The free helpline is open 24 hours a day, every day on 0800 11 11. If you have difficulty in hearing or in using a regular phone try the textphone service on 0800 400 222.

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