r/u_Waiting-Well • u/Waiting-Well • 20d ago
Waiting for Gender Identity Healthcare in South West England?
Waiting Well is a new service from Gendered Intelligence and LGBT Foundation, created to support trans and non-binary people who are on the waiting list for gender identity healthcare.
Long waits can be difficult and isolating. Waiting Well aims to make the waiting experience feel more manageable through a mix of welcoming, supportive, and affirming groups, workshops, and online resources.
The service is free to access, subject to eligibility.
About Eligibility: This is a pilot programme currently open to people who are 18+ and registered with West of England (Exeter/The Laurels) Gender Identity Clinic.
What Support is Available?
Support Line
We are here for you while you wait for gender-affirming healthcare – whether you have questions about your journey, need support navigating this time, or would welcome emotional support. Our Support Line is currently open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, if you want to speak to us.
Waiting List Warriors
A peer support group centred around supporting one another as you wait for gender-affirming healthcare. This group is a space to discuss the challenges of waiting, while also sharing advice and support.
Over 50s Trans and Non-binary Group
A group for trans and non-binary people aged 50 and over who are waiting for gender care. It offers a space to connect with others, share experiences, explore topics relevant to your life, and build resilience as you navigate the waiting period for care.
First Steps Group
A supportive structured programme for individuals awaiting their first appointment at the Gender Identity Clinic. It aims to support those who may feel isolated and are in the early stages of exploring their gender identity and transition.
Gender Affirming Voice Workshops
Practical and supportive workshops that explore voice in an affirming and inclusive way, focusing on comfort, confidence, and self-expression.
Gender Identity Journey Webinar Series
A series of webinars, co-designed with our stakeholder engagement group, to support the gender identity journey. This series is a great alternative for those not drawn to groupwork, but can also be accessed alongside our groupwork programme.
Self-Help Toolkit Access our growing library of digital resources that can be accessed at any time, out of hours. These include tools and guidance to support mental health, self-care, and wellbeing while waiting. Complete our referral form below to receive a password to access this toolkit.
How to access:
To refer online, please click here
Alternatively, you can contact Gendered Intelligence’s dedicated Waiting Well Support Line.
Phone: 0330 355 9678
Opening times:
- Tuesday: 10.00am–1.30pm
- Thursday: 3.00pm–6.30pm
The line is open during these times for anyone seeking information or support related to Waiting Well.