The 'What's In A Name?' campaign aims to offer information and guidance for parents / carers and professionals on how to respond when a young person informs you that they wish to be known as a different name and/or pronouns.
Why using a chosen name and pronouns is important:
By addressing a young person by their chosen name and pronouns you are helping them to feel validated, accepted and safe. If a young person feels validated and safe, they are more likely to then engage and be more open to communicating.
Refusing to address a trans or non-binary person by their chosen name and pronouns can cause barriers and contribute towards a decline in their mental health and an increase in self-harm.
Validating a person’s identity by using their chosen name and pronouns can improve relationships, build confidence and reduce anxiety and poor mental health, allowing the transgender person to be able to focus on other things such as school.
A person’s name and pronouns should be accepted and utilised without judgement or question. If in doubt, it is advisable to use the person's preferred name instead of a pronoun.
What is Deadnaming? Find Out More
Do's and Don'ts Find Out More
Terminology Find Out More
Top tips for parents / carers / family members Find Out More
Top tips for young people Find Out More
