Thursday, 15th May 2025
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
MAJOR ‘TRANS* THRIVING’ PROJECT ANNOUNCED FOR LEICESTER, LEICESTERSHIRE, AND RUTLAND
As the world marks IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia) this Saturday 17th May, Leicester’s Trade Sexual Health is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking Trans* Thriving: Mind, Body, Spirit* project.
This vital initiative, which has been generously supported by a £267,520 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund, is set to empower trans* individuals across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland by building stronger community connections and enhancing their health and wellbeing.
With increasing challenges to the rights and safety of trans* communities, the three-year, Trans* Thriving project comes at a critical time.
The project is designed to create safe, inclusive spaces for trans* people, offering opportunities for fitness, social support, and personal growth in ways that foster belonging and well-being. The launch of this initiative aligns with the values of IDAHOBIT, which seeks to eliminate discrimination and promote equality for the LGBTQ+ community.
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The project will focus on strengthening connections within the local trans* community by providing resources to help create new social events and groups. This includes expanding Trade Sexual Health’s team of trained trans* volunteers who will lead the creation of safe spaces for social, fitness, and healthcare support.
The project will enable more trans* people to fulfil their potential – by enabling them to take a more active role in looking after their health, wellbeing, and social connections, in ways which will help prevent future health inequalities.
In the second and third years of the project it will support (and fund) the creation of five new trans-led social and support groups across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. What these will be, will be shaped by the trans* community, but we anticipate together they will offer support with accessing appropriate healthcare, and a range of social, fitness, or sporting activities.
At least one group will focus on staying active outdoors in greenspaces, and the intention is that the groups should be based across Leicestershire and Rutland (not all focused in the city).
Further, it is hoped that at least one group will be led by trans* BIPOC, (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour) as they are underserved by existing services locally.
Quotes from key supporters:
Katie Neeves, Founder & Director of Cool2BTrans, expressed her support for the project:
“The Lottery funding for Trade's Trans* Thriving Project is a welcome shot in the arm for trans and non-binary people in Leicestershire. The timing couldn't have been better too, as it comes when the human rights of trans* people in the UK are under attack following the unjust Supreme Court ruling on the definition of ‘sex’ within the Equality Act 2010. We needed some good news right now, so I'm thrilled that Trade and the National Lottery have provided it.”
George White, a local trans man who delivers training on inclusive education in Catholic schools, shared his excitement:
“I am so excited by Trade’s new Trans* Thriving Project. Since moving back to Leicester from London, it has been hard to find quite as many inclusive places and events. Leicester has a large trans community, and although I have seen more events and initiatives to show solidarity, there still aren’t enough spaces for those who may need quieter or more active environments. This initiative will proactively enable trans people to not just survive but thrive in their authentic identity.”
Gavin Brown, Chief Executive of Trade Sexual Health, highlighted the importance of the project:
“This project seemed like a good idea when we started working on it 18 months ago, but it is now absolutely essential. The recent Supreme Court ruling has had a very detrimental impact on the mental health of many trans* people and their sense of safety. Left unchecked, this situation will have long-term negative impacts on their health and exaggerate existing health inequalities. The Trans* Thriving project will help build a network of spaces across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, where trans* people can keep fit, stay socially connected, and safely pursue their passions and interests. Trans* people deserve to thrive, and we hope this project will enable them to do that on their own terms. We thank the generosity of the National Lottery Fund – and the general public buying Lottery tickets – for making this project possible.”
ENDS
For interview requests or high res imagery, please contact
Gavin Brown (he/him), Chief Executive Officer, Trade Sexual Health Email: gavin@tradesexualhealth.com Phone: 07458 092442
EDITORS NOTES
About Trade Sexual Health: Trade Sexual Health is a Leicester-based charity committed to improving the sexual health and well-being of diverse communities. With a focus on providing tailored support, information, and services, Trade offers a range of programs designed to meet the needs of individuals from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community.
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