Vulnerability
Our housing guidance site
Supporting trans people
The term transgender (often shortened to trans) refers to people whose gender identity differs from that typically associated with the sex they were assigned to at birth.
Camden has historically been a borough which celebrates diversity and has been a safe place for transgender people to call home for generations. However, a shortage of affordable housing has meant many within this community are being displaced. Research by organisations like AKT, Stonewall, and Mind shows that LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to be homeless, with almost one in five LGBTQIA+ people being homeless at some point in their lifetime.
Transgender people are also more likely to experience hate crime, discrimination or anti-social behaviour because of their identity. Trans hate crime has risen 11% in past year alone (2023-2024).
You can find information on specialist services for transgender and non-binary people here and information on our website here.
Top tips from co-workers:
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You can’t always tell if someone is transgender by how they present. There is no one transgender experience, so there is no one way for people to look either.
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There is no “one right way” to be transgender. Some transgender people choose to medically transition, and some don’t. Some transgender people choose to legally change their names, and some don’t. Some transgender people choose to change their appearance, and some don’t. All experiences are welcome and valid.
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Show respect even if you don't fully understand their experience. Some people haven’t heard a lot about transgender identity or have trouble understanding what it means to be trans. Even in these cases, it's good to show respect and empathy for the vulnerabilities they might be experiencing.
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Use the person’s chosen name and pronouns. If you are unsure, you can try to introduce yourself with pronouns, which may give them an opportunity to share.