A van means reaching communities asking for our support and creating safe pop-up spaces where trans and non-binary people can connect.
TNB Connect is a grassroots organisation creating safe, inclusive spaces for people across all intersections of the trans and non-binary community. For almost six years, our team has worked with very little formal funding, using personal resources, volunteer time and community support to keep our work going.
Our founder, Nate Ethan Watson, won the Positive Role Model Award at the 2022 National Diversity Awards in recognition of his work within the community and through TNB Connect. Nate is also a public health and mental health specialist with more than 20 years of experience working across complex and high-need settings, including forensic services, therapeutic practice, mental health support and community-based intervention.
His experience has helped shape TNB Connect’s preventative, trauma-informed and person-centred approach. Our work responds not only to immediate needs, but also to the wider social, emotional and public health factors affecting trans and non-binary people.
People who access TNB Connect have told us that we are saving lives and that there is nothing else like us in the country. We reduce isolation, support mental wellbeing and help people access practical support before they reach crisis point.
We provide free clothing, gender-affirming items and essential resources, helping to reduce financial pressure while improving confidence, dignity and wellbeing. We have also delivered projects supporting people experiencing difficulties with housing, living costs and other financial pressures.
Our events, workshops and pop-up spaces give people opportunities to connect, develop confidence and showcase their talents. We provide stages and platforms for performers, creatives and community members who may otherwise struggle to be seen or heard.
We also partner with organisations providing employability, housing, wellbeing and specialist support, helping people access wider services and opportunities. We have brought well-known allies and supporters into our spaces, creating opportunities for empowerment, visibility, meaningful conversations and lasting connections.
Our vision is to take this inclusive, preventative and community-led support across the UK. The money raised will help us purchase a reliable outreach van, allowing us to transport free clothing, gender-affirming items, equipment and resources to communities requesting our support.
The van will help us reach places we are currently unable to access, respond to more invitations and create safe, welcoming pop-up spaces wherever they are needed. It will also reduce the pressure on volunteers who currently use their own vehicles and help make our work more sustainable.
This is about much more than buying a van. It is about expanding access to support, reducing isolation, easing financial pressure and helping more trans and non-binary people feel seen, valued and connected.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 29th September 2026 at 10:26pm