Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) holds significant importance for the LGBTQ+ Community, and especially for young transgender people, as it serves as a powerful platform for recognition, validation, and support. 

For many transgender people, navigating societal norms and prejudices can be immensely challenging, particularly during formative years. TDOV offers an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the experiences, struggles, and achievements of transgender people, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community.

Linking this significance with Llamau’s Ty Pride LGBTQ+ Housing project in Rhyl (a partnership project between Denbighshire County Council, Llamau and Viva LGBTQ+), the first of its kind in Wales, underscores the tangible steps being taken to address the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in areas such as housing and accommodation. For young Trans people, finding safe and inclusive housing can be a daunting task, with many facing discrimination and rejection from traditional housing options.

Ty Pride not only provides a physical space for LGBTQ+ individuals but also symbolises a broader commitment to creating environments where everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, feels accepted and supported. By celebrating TDOV in conjunction with initiatives like Ty Pride, we affirm the visibility and value of transgender individuals, challenging stigma and fostering a more inclusive society.

We would like to share some words from a young person who is currently living at Ty Pride on their experience of the home…

“When I first arrived at Ty Pride, I was 17, and a nervous wreck, I didn’t have much confidence. It was a good thing I arrived there with my step dad, it was a lot to take in until I met my two housemates.

The longer I stayed at Ty Pride, the more homely it felt because of how comfortable I got. I’ve lived at the house for about 2 years now, the time has passed so quickly, the staff are so lovely and have helped me so much, especially with my transition.  What has made me felt so comfortable is that all the staff use my preferred name and pronouns which has made me so happy, as Ty Pride is an LGBTQ+ accommodation.

I have faced many problems while living here but what I'm most glad about is that I'm not alone. Before moving to Ty Pride, I hadn’t even been near more than 1 other transgender person, so living with two people that go through the same journey as me makes me so comfortable and knowing that if I have a problem I can go talk to them and they’d understand. Before I had no one I could talk to, no one that can understand me which made me feel so alone but now I’m practically living my best life again knowing that I’m not alone. And I live very close to the beach, which I love. The only negative in Ty Pride is that the seagulls can get too loud!

The longer I live in this accommodation the more I’ll achieve as the staff help me so much.” 

Llamau will also launch its report on its first LGBTQ+ supported living project – Ty Pride during Pride Month. This adds further significance to the celebration. This report not only highlights the successes and challenges of the Ty Pride project but also serves as a call to action for policymakers, communities, and individuals to prioritise the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, and especially transgender youth. By amplifying the voices and experiences of transgender youth through initiatives like Ty Pride and TDOV celebrations, we move closer to we move closer to creating a world where everyone can live authentically as themselves.