March sees the launch of a new group for female-to-male trans people in Brighton.

The group is a fresh initiative from the Trans Men’s Working Group at THT South.

Founder member Bryn said:
“There are some great groups around the country for trans guys but it is long overdue for Brighton to have one of its own.”

The group emerged from THT’s Informed Passions project, which uses a grass-roots approach to sexual health work with gay and bisexual men in Brighton and Hove.

Community Development and Volunteer Co-ordinator, Justin Harbottle said:
 “It’s fantastic that Informed Passions has been able to support this project. This is exactly what we hoped would happen; local guys deciding what they need and having access to the support and resources to make it happen. We wish the group every success!”

The organisers were keen to explain that the group will not be limited to gay and bisexual trans men or focus solely on sexual health work.

Elliot explained:
“If you are female-to-male trans, this group is for you. Whether you identify as a trans man, genderqueer or just want a safe space to meet other trans guys and hang out, this group if for you, whatever your sexuality.”

The group envisages that its sexual health work will be part of a wider set of activities to include information, support, social events and local campaigning relevant to FTM trans people.

Nick told us:
 “For too long local politicians and policy makers have been making decisions that affect our lives with no input from us as FTM trans people. That must change and coming together as a group can only strengthen our voice.”

The group issued a call for local FTM trans folk to come along and get involved.

Rob explained:
 “The group will be entirely run by and for its members working around our needs and our agendas. There’ll never be a better time to get involved, right at the start!”

The first meeting of FTM Brighton takes place on Saturday March 19, 18.00-20.00, at the THT Office at 61 Ship Street, Brighton, BN1 1AE.

For more information, email: FTMBrighton@hotmail.co.uk