5 sobering stats about trans young people

In this blog, Carwyn Williams talks about the challenges many trans young people face and why we must do more to include and support them.

We know that it’s challenging to be a transgender or non-binary person right now. 

At Brook, we believe that schools must be inclusive and celebrate diversity. This includes recognising different kinds of families and relationships and the full range of gender identities and expressions.

But we’re working against a backdrop of media coverage about gender, which is sometimes challenging and often unhelpful.

With these harmful narratives circulating, it’s important to stay focused on the facts and listen to the actual lived experience of gender-questioning young people. 

The figures below, which feature in our Gender Diversity online course, show why being inclusive is so important. Developed in partnership with Gendered Intelligence, the course is informed by trans, non-binary and gender-questioning young people. They told us consistently that their lives would have improved if their schools had discussed gender and gender diversity.  

Let’s review what the evidence tells us about the lives and experiences of trans young people.

46% of trans people have thought about taking their own life

Source: LGBT in Britain, Stonewall

Research shows that trans, non-binary and gender-questioning pupils speak of the importance of having at least one adult who can advocate for them, help them understand their rights, and help them navigate a cisnormative world.

Teachers can play a hugely influential role in supporting young people in this way, setting them on a positive path that improves their mental health for life.

65% of trans young people worry about their mental health daily

Source: Growing up LGBT+, just like us

Schools must provide a positive and supportive environment for trans, non-binary and gender-questioning pupils. Doing so can improve mental health and wellbeing, self-esteem, school engagement, and sense of belonging. 

The report also found that in schools that have positive messaging about being LGBT+, all pupils’ wellbeing and safety is notably improved – regardless of whether they are LGBT+ or not.

23% of trans young people 18-25 experience homelessness

Source: Homelessness and housing instability among LGBTQ youth, The Trevor Project

Transitioning is a profoundly personal experience, but many trans young people face similar challenges at school and throughout life. 

A whole school approach refers to all members of a school community working together to achieve and promote something. It can be vital in supporting trans, non-binary and gender-questioning students.

This involves working with parents and carers. Schools can help address any misconceptions parents and carers may have about equality by providing information and resources that explain the school’s policies and practices around equality.

32% of transgender young people miss lessons due to fear of discrimination

Source: National Young Chances Integrated Report, Metro Charity

With absence rates at school around double what they were before the pandemic, it’s important we do everything we can to understand what help pupils need to get them back to class and make the most of their education.

Children who are supported at home and at school have positive academic and emotional outcomes.

It is easy to focus on ‘the problem’ of fitting trans, non-binary and gender-questioning pupils into a cisnormative [LH1] school. But it is important to consider wider inclusive adaptations. This includes anti-bullying policies and providing resources for mental health support.

64% of trans pupils are bullied for being LGBT+ at school

Source: School Report, Stonewall

LGBT+ students need to be aware of other LGBT+ students and staff across the school, and positive messaging can make a significant impact on how safe all pupils feel at school. 

Schools should work with LGBT+ students to create plans that address bullying and support their needs. Both LGBT+ students and their supporters should be encouraged to form their own groups focused on LGBT+ issues and equality.

Make a difference

We’ve partnered with Gendered Intelligence to produce an online course for teachers to support trans and non-binary pupils.

Developed with trans and non-binary young people, the course will help you deliver comprehensive, effective, and inclusive lessons that align with the current Department for Education RSHE guidance and the Equality Act 2010. It will also give you the confidence to support trans young people at your school better, improving their life chances and educational attainment.

Gender Diversity

£35.00

Buy now