Helen’s story

“When my stepson (AFAB was born female) first told us they felt like they were in the wrong body, it was a moment that changed all of our lives. Like many families, our reactions weren’t perfectly aligned at the start. Their dad and stepmum were supportive but mum struggled to understand, and that created some difficult moments early on. But what stood strong throughout, was that they weren’t alone. Had a dad and a stepmum who were determined to listen, learn, and support him fully. Mum did become supportive.

This journey has been one of growth, not just for him, but for all of us. We’ve had to unlearn assumptions, challenge our own understanding, and sometimes stand firm in the face of misunderstanding from others. There have been challenges with misgendering, explaining things to people who don’t always want to understand, and navigating systems that aren’t always inclusive. But through it all, we’ve focused on one simple truth: he deserves to be seen and loved for who he truly is.

What’s helped the most is communication and trust. Letting him lead with who he is, respecting his identity, and making sure home is a safe place where he doesn’t have to explain himself. Support networks, both online and in real life, have also been incredibly important, reminding us that we’re not alone in this.

Pride, for us, is about visibility, acceptance, and celebrating authenticity. It’s about creating a world where young people like my stepson don’t have to fight to be recognised, they can simply exist as themselves, safely and proudly.

I wish more people understood that being trans isn’t a phase or something to be debated, it’s a lived reality. And for families, it’s not about having all the answers straight away. It’s about showing up, listening, and choosing love even when things feel unfamiliar.

If I could share one message, it would be this: support doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be real. Your willingness to stand beside someone, to learn and grow with them, can make all the difference in the world.”