Downloads and Resources
Guides, booklets, and practical resources you can download, print, and share — covering healthcare, screening, and support for trans+ people and every other member of our rainbow community.
My body doesn't feel like me
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First Steps
A practical, accessible guide for parents and carers whose child has recently come out as transgender, non-binary, or gender questioning. First Steps covers everything from understanding key terminology to navigating school policies, accessing professional support, and considering legal and medical options — written with warmth and co-produced with the trans+ community.
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About this resource
First Steps is a free booklet produced by The OutHouse, an LGBTQ+ charity based in Colchester. It was written by Eevie Paige and co-produced with members of The OutHouse’s trans+ community.
Research shows that parental support significantly reduces the risk of mental health difficulties for trans and non-binary young people. This guide is designed to help parents feel informed and confident in providing that support.
What the booklet covers
Glossary — Plain-language explanations of key terms including transgender, non-binary, gender dysphoria, gender identity, gender expression, pronouns, neo-pronouns, deadnaming, misgendering, and sexual and romantic orientation.
Common concerns — Including the “is it just a phase?” question, with reassurance that most aspects of social transition are fully reversible, and that coming out is typically the result of a long period of reflection rather than a sudden decision.
Creating a supportive environment — Practical advice on open communication, using correct names and pronouns, and advocating for your child at school. Includes guidance on the Equality Act 2010, safeguarding duties, and what schools are required to provide following the April 2025 Supreme Court ruling — including access to private gender-neutral facilities.
Navigating social challenges — How to support your child in coming out to extended family, following the child’s lead on timing and approach, and preparing for a range of family reactions.
Accessing professional support — Signposting to The OutHouse’s own counselling and peer support services, Mermaids, and Pink Therapy (the UK’s largest independent therapy directory for gender and sexually diverse clients).
Legal and medical considerations — An overview of NHS pathways including referral to the Gender Identity Development Service, puberty blockers, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (including the current pause on new prescriptions for 16–18 year olds as of March 2026). Also covers deed polls, Gender Recognition Certificates, and how to update NHS records, passports, and driving licences.
Educational resources — Recommended further reading including the Gender Construction Kit, Trans Teen Survival Guide by Fox and Owl Fisher, Gender Euphoria edited by Laura Kate Dale, and The OutHouse’s companion booklet My Body Doesn’t Feel Like Me: Gender Dysphoria Explained.
Get the booklet
First Steps is available as a free download or printed copy from The OutHouse. 🌐 theouthouse.org.uk | ✉ info@theouthouse.org.uk | 📞 01206 871394
Hate Crime Leaflet
Hate crime reporting includes emergency calls, online submissions, and third-party organizations, with victims having rights under UK Victims’ Codes. Prevention involves challenging prejudiced attitudes, reporting hate incidents, and promoting awareness. The initiative encourages community engagement, restorative justice, and collaboration among authorities, support services, and the public to address and prevent hate crimes across various communities.
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and will record and investigate this offence even if you do not want to give your details. However, you must note that the investigation and ability to prosecute the offender(s) is severely limited if the police cannot contact you.
