The Trans Experience in 2025

Join us for a timely and vital panel event looking at the growing challenges faced by trans people in the UK today.

Following many years of challenges to trans inclusion in our society, this discussion will explore key issues impacting the trans community in 2025 — including discrimination, inadequate access to gender-affirming healthcare, legal recognition, and the increasingly hostile discourse around trans inclusion in public life, including sports.

Our panel of trans individuals — including activists, researchers, and subject-matter experts — will share their lived experiences and insights into the current political and social landscape, and outline what needs to change for them. Central to the conversation will be how allies, communities, and political movements can effectively resist these rollbacks and support trans people with action as well as words.

A generous segment of the event will be devoted to open questions from the audience. This will be a space for honest conversation — whether you're seeking clarity, wanting to share your concerns, or looking to get more involved.

This event is open to all Liberal Democrat members and supporters. Whether you’re a long-time ally, newly engaged, or simply trying to understand the issues better: you are welcome.

We want to ensure a safe environment for our speakers and all attendees. Please do not share this advert outside of Liberal Democrat groups without speaking to Martyn first. Attendees are asked to come with an open mind and to engage with the discussion with respect for the lived experience of the panelists and opinions and beliefs of everyone present.

The event is completely free of charge, but voluntary contributions towards the cost of the room and refreshments are warmly welcomed (including cash or card payments on the night).

For further details, contact Martyn Cooper (Diversity Champion, Southampton Liberal Democrats): diversity@southampton-libdems.org.uk / 07531 975204.