Trans Self Defence Fund South West

Aim: We aim to provide the trans+ community classes to gain physical and mental confidence as well as a safe space to build friendships

We are a group of trans+ people who met at the Bristol vigil for Brianna Ghey, a 16 year old transgender girl whose life was taken so cruelly. Enraged by her murder and the frightening reporting and mocking of it, we decided that our community had to come together.

Trans people live under the constant threat of violence here in the UK and around the world. Having our existence debated and being used as a political punchbag daily really does take its toll.

It’s a sad fact that many trans people do not have the confidence to express themselves fully or even dress how they would like to, fearing of attacks both verbal and physical.

Bristol Trans Self Defence was born out of a need to come together to grieve but also to offer hope. Nobody should have to fear for their safety leaving the house. Working with experienced self defence teachers who are proud allies to the community, we aim to empower people to have that confidence. Trans+ people with martial arts experience are actively involved in catering the session content to make it relevant to the lived trans experience.

All funds raised will go towards venue hire fees and kit. Our current block of sessions has been generously funded by the facilitators themselves. In the longterm of the project we would like to be able to thank our current facilitators for their teachings, diversify the pool of facilitators, and expand our venue capacity - especially with growing interest.

We aspire for trans+ people to know that they have a place to go - free from stares and judgement - to build confidence, skills and community.