I was supported when I came out as trans at school – teachers owe it to their pupils to help

metro.co.uk:

I was trans and I had no idea what to do, who to speak to or where to go. I knew I wanted to transition, but I had no clue about where to even start.

She was immediately supportive – and instead of questioning me, she acknowledged and believed me, and helped me find a trans support group.

Within an hour, she had given me hope.It was incredibly important for me to have that space and be able to share that with her in complete confidence – and the support she gave me was so vital.My councillor was a lifeline, who was able to help me take those first steps of coming out, and telling my friends and family.

When I was ready to come out at school, she made sure that it was a smooth process and that the school started using my right name and pronouns at all times as requested.Without her, my journey could’ve been very different and it’s something I am still grateful for today.This is one of the many reasons it’s so incredibly important that staff at school support their trans pupils, and create an environment where they feel safe to express themselves fully.