Empowering Transgender Lives

Partners, Families & Friends

Empathy, understanding, and support

When a family member comes out as transgender, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy, understanding, and support.

Listen, Educate yourself, Use their Preferred Name and Pronouns, Be Patient and Compassionate, Advocate for their rights, Connect with support groups, Respect their privacy, and Celebrate their Authenticity.

They are simply trusting you with more information about a specific aspect of themselves, the part related to their Gender identity.

Remember, if you are able to learn and practise acceptance, this type of disclosure can bring you closer together.

Caroline Watson has shared her experience of discovering that her son of 22 wanted to be female and her journey with Hannah to become the daughter she is so proud of.

She relates the heartrending choices and ultimate triumph of her and her daughter’s pathway to Hannah becoming the person she wanted to be.

My Daughter, an Unexpected Gift.

As a follow-up to Caroline’s experiences, she has offered to support other parents who are beginning their own journeys.

If your son or daughter is aged 18 or over, contact her by email at  for friendly support, conversation and understanding that you are not alone.

Caroline also runs a Zoom Meeting every 2 – 3 weeks at 7pm (days vary) bringing together parents who are all going through their own experiences.

The Zoom Meetings  are there to support you, no need to be on video or even speak if you feel nervous, you can just listen.  She can also invite guest speakers or discuss something specific based on attendees wishes.

Transition image from male to female
helping, holding hands under the canopy of a tree

How to help

  1. Listen Actively: Allow your family member to express their feelings and experiences. Be open-minded and nonjudgmental. Remember that this is their journey, and they need your support.
  2. Educate Yourself: Learn about transgender experiences, terminology, and challenges. Understanding their perspective will help you provide better support.
  3. Use Their Preferred Name and Pronouns: Respect their identity by using the name and pronouns they choose. Correct yourself if you slip up—it shows you’re making an effort.
Remember, your love and acceptance mean the world to them during this vulnerable time.
Family out for a walk, supportive<br />
  1. Be Patient and Compassionate: Coming out can be emotionally intense. Give them time to adjust, and offer reassurance that you’re there for them.
  2. Advocate for Their Rights: Support their access to healthcare, legal recognition, and equal opportunities. Transgender individuals face discrimination, so being an ally matters.
  3. Connect with Support Groups: Seek out local or online support groups for families of transgender individuals. Connecting with others who’ve been through similar experiences can be comforting.
  4. Respect Privacy: Don’t share their identity without their consent. Let them decide when and how to come out to others.
  5. Celebrate Their Authenticity: Acknowledge their courage and celebrate their true self. Attend events like Pride together if they’re comfortable.
Empowering Trans Lives, Building Inclusive Communities