Minutes

During each meeting, there are a number of items which are discussed and may need action.

Additionally, as any items arise out with  the meeting, these will be itemised as items to be discussed in a future meeting

These points raised to date are itemised as follows :-

Constitution

The constitution  is now in place and should any amendments be required, these can be discussed at the regular monthly meetings.

Points of Discussion

Will we be addressing or counselling other mental health issues  when dealing with a TG person ?    This area is out with the purpose of the group and is best dealt with by experts  who specialise in this type of medical problem. We are unequipped to handle any mental health problems, and any advice will be given on a personal experience basis only.

Is the group principally concentrating on the Transsexual members at the expense of the Transvestite / cross dresser ?   Due to the nature of each strand of the transgender umbrella, every person, irrespective of being either TS or TV/CD will be treated with the same respect and given the necessary resource. It is envisaged that due to the current support system, this group will  eventually provide some supplementary support to the TS element, although this will be limited.

Hair Removal    Along with other groups, the question of hair removal is a major issue. This is now being resolved, in part, and  the method of funding is in place.  At present, NHS Lanarkshire and GGCHB are funding a number of people. Further to recent information received, there appears to be  some problems with obtaining funding for hair removal, and the employment of a qualified electrologist  working directly to Sandyford.

Charitable Status   

The group has now received confirmation of it’s charitable status. The Registration Number is SC041193

Funding applications have been sent to approximately 4 organisations, for varying amounts, and we hope to be successful in the near future of securing funds to establish a permanent office, probably in the LGBT Centre.

LGBT Youth   It has been advised from some members that they are being urged to form a support group for the younger members of the trans community. This matter was discussed at length, and it was generally agreed that if there is a requirement for the younger members to be supported, this should be done under the auspices of Crosslynx, and not left without any support.  Due to the nature of  being transgendered, the aspect of support and guidance of the mental issues as well as the physical issues has to be addressed simultaneously, and at present, this is not available except through Crosslynx.

Nest Support ( Aberdeen)  The open day, and launch dates were reasonably successful, but hampered due to the weather conditions ( severe snow storm) during the launch date, which prevented many interested organisations from attending. We wish this organisation the best and will support its aims in every way possible.

Highlands & Islands   A new contact centre for LGBT people, with particular emphasis on trans issues, is being proposed, and when full details are available, these will  be announced .

ITEMS REQUIRING FURTHER DISCUSSION

Support Group  It has been intimated that a support group for wives, partners, parents and close relatives may be beneficial to the overall well being of the transgendered person, as well as providing a source of information and help for those affected. I believe we should wholly endorse this proposal and support the formation of such a group.  

London—Westminster   It has been intimated by a contact that  should the group  wish to visit the Houses of Parliament, then a special tour can be organised, and an arrangement to observe the proceedings could be made, or a tour of the chamber if parliament is not sitting that day                                                                                                                                                      

Steering Group   Due to increased pressure to raise awareness of the issues surrounding the transgender community, I have taken it upon myself to form a steering group who will meet to discuss the areas of priority, in conjunction with the available funding.    

Monthly meetings    We are considering changing the monthly meeting from a Wednesday night to a Saturday night, and possibly starting at 7:00 pm. We would appreciate any views on this subject and ask you to contact us with any concerns etc.

 

END

Supporting the Transgender Community in Glasgow and the West of Scotland

Crosslynx. Transgender Group