Hi, I’m Luke, I'm a second year photography student. I've lived in Southampton all my life and know how accepting the city can be. Being trans myself, I understand the difficulties that come with being at university and just general life, however, I want to take this opportunity to help trans students and ensure you feel supported and listened to 100%.

I want to draw upon my own experiences to change what I feel is necessary to stop other people from going through what I have. For a few years, I’ve developed connections with the trans charity Mermaids. During this time, I've been a part of advocacy work with them, as your trans officer I’d continue working with the charity, to further enhance the support available to trans students. I’ll draw upon my experiences, as well as yours, to ensure that you’re getting the changes you want.

• Create a society specifically for trans students to create a safe space. To socialise in a group without judgement where you can be yourself. To offer the chance to discuss both trans related things and just general things. But to mainly have fun!
• Work with the university to create clearer guidance regarding trans students to eliminate any confusion and discrimination. The reform would look at toilets, how transphobia is dealt with, changing your name, pronouns, and gender marker, for example.
• Have a dedicated person in the Student Hub for trans students to go to for support. They’ll be aware of the updated guidance and support that’s available. They’ll be someone you can talk to without fear of judgement and that you know you can trust.
• Ensure you can contact me easily to discuss anything you want to address or any ideas you want to put forward with no fuss. I want to be someone you feel able to approach and have a chat about whatever you want.
• Create a sense of inclusivity on campus and online as well as increasing the awareness of trans identities. Through posters/online posts and creating events around important dates for the trans community.
• Work with charities such as Mermaids to train staff members on trans inclusivity to ensure you feel able to approach staff members without fear. To also give another level of support for students if you need more specific help or advice that the university isn’t able to offer.