‘I think if I had turned up sporting a beard and a dress then you get in trouble’: experiences of transgender students at UK universities

ABSTRACT

Research into the experiences of transgender students in the United Kingdom is extremely limited, despite surveys suggesting high levels of discrimination exist. This study aimed to explore the experiences of transgender students at UK universities, focusing on challenges and support. Six participants took part in semi-structured interviews which were analysed using thematic analysis. Two themes encompassing challenges and support experienced were identified; university as a space of potential acceptance and empowerment and university as unwelcoming social spaces. The sub-themes within each provide insight into the nuances of transgender students’ experiences at UK universities and highlight inconsistencies in current levels of support and policy. Future research is needed to understand the role of underlying student attitudes in discrimination, the efficacy of awareness raising initiatives, and how the responses of others can either objectify transgender students or reduce self-stigma. It is recommended that universities implement clear policies and procedures to support transgender students, develop inclusive facilities, and promote representation.

KEYWORDS:

• Transgender
• University
• student
• UK
• trans

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.