Names and Pronouns

One of the starting steps in transitioning is a name change. Some people will want to change their name to something that reflects how they identify. For example, a trans man may want to change his name to something more masculine than the name they were given. A name can be changed via deed poll with the help of a solicitor, and then important documents such as bank account, drivers license and passport will also need to be changed. If you wish to also change your gender marker and title, most organisations will change your gender marker without any proof other than your name change deed. You will need to get a new NHS number if you wish to change your gender marker and title at your doctors surgery, they will help you with that at your practice. In order to change the gender on your birth certificate however, you will need to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate, which requires some proof from your healthcare provider to prove you are transitioning.

Pronouns are another part of transitioning that is important to trans or nonconforming people. There doesn't need to be any legal documentation for people to change their pronouns, they just have to say which they prefer. However, it can be distressing when trans people are misgendered. When a man is transitioning into a woman, they are trans women and should be referred to using female pronouns (she/her/hers) and considered women in all ways. When a woman is transitioning into a man, they are a trans man and should be referred to with male pronouns (he/him/his) and considered men in all ways.