Part of the reason trans and intersex people have been exploited by parts of the media is that they are often isolated and vulnerable. No matter how confident you are in yourself, it’s a good idea to make sure you have support before you get involved with the media.

Trans Media Watch can provide practical support and advice but we recommend you try to find emotional support from someone close to you. This could be a friend, a family member, a community worker, a religious authority or a counsellor. Talking through what you plan to do beforehand can help you get a better idea of your boundaries. It’s also good to know that there’s someone who’ll be there for you if you feel stressed afterwards. Even positive engagement with the media can sometimes bring back upsetting memories.

If you are appearing in a television programme you can often arrange to bring someone with you for support. Ask the programme makers if this will be an option.

Think about personal security issues before you start filming or give an interview. Are there details of your life that it would be wise to keep private? You might want to avoid the public knowing what area you live in, where you work or what your car registration number is. Remember to consider your loved ones’ privacy as well as your own. If you expect high profile coverage and you’re worried in case you attract the wrong kind of attention, ask at your local police station for safety advice.

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