Trans Awareness Training

Employer’s Moral Duty

With more media coverage on trans issues over the last five years or so, trans people are becoming more visible and we feel more able to come out than we ever have before. It’s becoming more and more likely that you will have a transgender member of your team soon (if you haven’t already). This can cause problems in the workplace if there are some transphobic members of the team or others who are just ignorant of the needs and sensitivities of trans colleagues. A survey in 2021 by YouGov on behalf of TotalJobs showed that 32% of trans people had experienced transphobia in the workplace in the previous 5 years, 65% of trans people hide their trans status at work and 43% of trans people have quite due to their workplace being so unwelcoming.  That really shouldn’t be.

Employer’s Legal Duty
Apart from your moral duty to protect your employees from transphobic abuse, you also have a legal obligation under the Equality Act 2010 to create an inclusive workplace and to have anti-discrimination policies in place.  It only takes one transphobic member of staff to land their employer in a tribunal for discrimination, but having a regular and compulsory trans awareness training programme for all staff gives the employer a very strong defence against such cases.

The Business Case for Trans Awareness Training (& for all LGBT+ Inclusion)
It makes great business sense too as LGBT+ staff are 32% more productive when they are comfortable being out at work. In 2016, Credit Suisse discovered that closeted employees are 73% more likely to leave their jobs within 3 years than those who are out. So by being trans-inclusive, you are likely to have greater staff retention as well as have a more profitable company. Also, what do your customers think of you? The Harvard Business Review 2016 showed that 71% of LGBT respondents and 82% of LGBT allies said they are more likely to purchase from a company that supports LGBT equality. That’s what I call a win-win-win!

Why Choose Katie Neeves?
Being a transgender woman who is currently in transition, I offer a very personal, powerful and authentic insight into what it’s like to be transgender in the UK.  I tell my story with humour and in a refreshingly un-corporate manner. I am not afraid to tell it like it is, but I think it is essential to entertain as well as to educate.

I prefer to have small groups of up to 15 people for in-depth training sessions (although I regularly to talk to large audiences for less in-depth presentations) as I aim to create an atmosphere in which people feel comfortable to ask me questions that they may feel uncomfortable asking a trans colleague. Nothing is off-limits! I am not embarrassed about answering very personal questions as I know it helps to further others’ understanding and acceptance of trans people. I actively encourage questions and dialogue as I want my sessions to be more like a conversation than a lecture.

I am happy to either work directly for companies or as a subcontractor to other diversity trainers who may need some help with their transgender awareness module.

Training Sessions

Here are the details of the trans-awareness training options I currently offer which can be delivered either in person or virtually for small groups of around 15 people.  While these sessions can be delivered to a slightly larger audience, it’s best to stick to around 15 people for maximum engagement.  For much larger audiences, please see my inspirational Speaking packages.

FOR EVERYONE:

3 Hour Trans-awareness Session

Ideal for everyone, this training session gives in-depth information about all things trans.  It equips participants with the knowledge to really understand trans people and the vocabulary necessary to prevent them from inadvertently offending trans people.  I get the participants involved and treat it as more of a conversation rather than death by powerpoint!  The session consists of the following sections:

  • Ice-breaker / assessment of prior knowledge
  • Why is trans-awareness training needed?
  • My Long Walk to Womanhood – This is the raw, emotional, educational and humorous story of my transgender transition, mixed with explanations of all things trans.  I give a full and frank account of my rollercoaster of a journey to be able to live my truth as the woman I have always been (but previously never allowed to show), after living for 48 years as a man.  I also speak about my background as a press photographer (photographing everything from wars and riots to royalty), the difficult decisions surrounding my photography and video business which was named after my old (male) name and how I ended up being a global speaker, presenter and trainer and being given incredible opportunities such as modelling on the catwalk at London Fashion Week.  My cheeky sense of humour has become a hallmark of all my presentations as I feel it is essential to entertain as well as to inform.  My story is the most powerful section upon which all my other presentations are built and I regularly see audiences both laugh and cry while I tell it.  It was recently described as “a masterclass in storytelling” and “Inspirational storytelling at its best.”) – This is the section that wins hearts and minds.
  • Q&A about my journey 
  • 15 minute break
  • Trans terminology explained 
  • Typical stages of a transgender journey
  • Top tips for being a trans ally
  • Q&A 

N.B.  Sections can be added if you wish to me tailor the workshop to a specific audience.

 

1.5 Hour Trans Awareness Session
Entitled “What’s it like to be transgender?  And how can I support those who are?”, this presentation uses the most powerful storytelling elements from my 3-hour training session and it gives the audience a very real appreciation for what life is like for trans people and practical tips for being an ally.  This is my most popular session and it is ideal for everyone.   The Q&A section makes it adaptable for all sectors too, as people in different professions tend to ask questions that are relevant to their particular role.  It was recently described as “the most interesting webinar so far and definitely the funniest”.   The presentation consists of the following sections:

  • My Long Walk to Womanhood (as described above in my 3-hour session for everyone) – This is the section that wins hearts and minds.
  • Top tips for being a trans ally
  • Q&A 

 

1.5 Hour FOLLOW-UP Trans-awareness Session

This training session is ONLY for people who have already attended my 1.5-hour trans awareness session (“What’s it like to be Transgender.  And how can I support those who are?”) as it expands on the knowledge given in my first session.  It equips participants with the knowledge to really understand the transition process and the vocabulary necessary to prevent them from inadvertently offending trans people.  The session consists of the following sections:

  • Why is trans-awareness training needed?
  • Trans terminology explained
  • Typical stages of a transgender journey
  • Q&A

 

FOR LEADERS & HR PROFESSIONALS:

1.5 Hour Workshop: “How to make the workplace more trans-inclusive + My long walk to womanhood”

Aimed at leaders, diversity & inclusion managers, HR managers and training managers, this workshop gives a very real appreciation of what it’s like to be trans and the participants will leave with actionable ideas for how to make their workplace more trans-inclusive.  The workshop consists of the following sections:

  • My long walk to womanhood (as described above, in my 3-hour session for everyone) This is the section that wins hearts and minds.
  • Why is trans awareness training needed?
  • Examples of cases where employers have got it wrong
  • Group discussion on ideas to help prevent trans discrimination in the workplace

 

45 Mins to 1 Hour Workshop: “How to make the workplace more trans-inclusive”

This short workshop is aimed at leaders, diversity & inclusion managers, HR managers and training managers who have already heard my story.  It gives actionable ideas for how to make their workplace more trans-inclusive, although it does not give an appreciation of what it’s like to be trans or any explanations of it and it does nothing to win  over hearts and minds.   I recommend a maximum number of 15 people for this session.  The workshop consists of the following sections:

  • Who is Katie Neeves? (brief introduction)
  • Why is trans awareness training needed?
  • Examples of cases where employers have got it wrong
  • Group discussion on ideas to help prevent trans discrimination in the workplace

 

FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS:

3.5 Hour Trans-awareness Session for Medical Professionals 
Ideal for medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, carers and specialist clinicians, this training session gives in-depth information about all things trans.  Given from a patient’s perspective, it equips participants with the knowledge to really understand trans people and the vocabulary necessary to prevent them from inadvertently offending trans patients.  The session consists of the following sections:

  • Ice-breaker / assessment of prior knowledge (interactive)
  • Why is trans-awareness training needed?
  • My Long Walk to Womanhood (as described above, in my 3-hour session for everyone)  – This is the section that wins hearts and minds.
  • Top tips for being a trans ally
  • Q&A
  • 15 minute break
  • Trans terminology explained (interactive)
  • Typical stages of a transgender journey
  • The effects and risks of cross-sex hormone therapy
  • Sensitivities and issues of trans patients
  • Q&A

 

1 Hour Masterclass – Improving the patient experience for trans people 
Ideal for medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, carers and specialist clinicians, this short masterclass outlines issues to be aware of when treating trans patients.  Given from a patient’s perspective, it equips participants with the knowledge to really understand trans people and the vocabulary necessary to prevent them from inadvertently offending trans patients, although it does not win over hearts and minds.  A longer session which includes my story is necessary for that.   The session consists of the following sections:

  • Top tips for being a trans ally
  • The effects and risks of cross-sex hormone therapy
  • Sensitivities and issues of trans patients
  • Q&A

 

 

I use a lot of humour in my presentations and workshops as I believe that audiences should be both entertained & informed.  I am very honest and very open in my presentations too.  I will answer absolutely anything in my Q&A sections as I create a safe space for participants to ask me questions that they may not feel comfortable asking their trans colleagues, friends or relatives.

Some Lovely Feedback

Here are some comments and testimonials I recently received:

  • “The trans awareness workshop with Katie made a lasting impact and impression on the team.  Many have said that it was the most exciting training in years.  They said that they had thought about it a lot afterwards and would like a follow-up for further discussion. I would 100% recommend Katie to others.” – Katrin Terwiel, Vice President Diversity & Global Talent, Deutsche Telekom
  • Katie is a phenomenal speaker and trainerShe creates a safe space for open dialogue and learning as she blends thought-provoking content with humour and warmth. Katie uses her personal story with such generosity and openness it’s impossible not to feel totally engaged – which creates such rich conversation and teases people out of their shells to ask questions. A three hour session flew by!” – Jamie Scotto, People & Culture Advisor – HR at UnLtd
  • “We booked Katie to run two Trans Day of Visibility workshops for Virgin Media belonging networks. She was engaging, hilarious and amazing. Every bit of feedback we received from those who attended was beyond positive. I personally have never laughed and learnt so much in one hour!” – Chloe Rainford, Mobile Trading & Online Sales Graduate at Virgin Media O2
  • “Katie delivered an engaging, inspirational and educational Trans Awareness session for ENGIE on International Transgender Day of Visibility. She connected with the audience, telling her own personal story with humour and heart and provided a safe space for people to ask questions. There were so many wonderful comments received by employees after the event. I would highly recommend Katie as a speaker.” – Jennie Pitt, Head of Diversity & Inclusion, Employee Engagement, Relations & Policy at ENGIE
  • “Katie has been a joy to work with for our session at Aviva. Katie talked to us about her own transition along with tips on good allyship. The session was really well received and we had lots of good questions and feedback. Katie’s sessions are filled with lovely humour making the audience feel at ease. I would love Aviva to work with Katie again and I can’t recommend her sessions highly enough. Thanks again Katie” – Joanne Clifton, Legal Counsel, Aviva
  • “Katie delivered a powerful, insightful and engaging session on her own personal journey and tips for being a trans ally. She is very open and honest about her own lived experience and has a unique way of telling her story and educating people in a humorous and uplifting way. Thank you Katie!” – Kelly Godden, Senior Talent Professional, Ofcom
  • Katie attended our International Women’s Day panel at Virgin Media yesterday and what an honour that was. An inspirational speaker with a fantastic sense of humour that really shone through. Katie has been incredibly engaged throughout all the planning and a real joy to partner with on our IWD plans. In a very short time I’ve already learnt a huge amount from Katie and I’d really encourage others to take the opportunity with Katie to learn and grow.” – Danielle Peel, Project Delivery Lead, Virgin Media O2
  • “I had the pleasure of working with Katie on an online Pride event.  She’s one of the most articulate and entertaining people I have seen in this format. Good humoured, well educated and a consummate professional. I would happily work with Katie again and sincerely hope we will. She’s very talented and I could see her presenting a talk show on a major TV channel.” – Natalie Bowen, Vice Chairperson, Rhondda Pride
  • “I just wanted to drop you a message to say how much I enjoyed your webinar on Friday , really insightful and also your sense of humour kept it so engaging. Will def check out your company to see if we can do any work together in the future.  Thanks Katie for me it was the most interesting webinar so far and definitely the funniest” – Emma Buckley
  • “I had been following Katie’s journey for some time, I found her story not only inspirational but her approach made me connect and really want to work with her. I love Katie’s approach, she shares her stories with warmth, wit and stacks of humour. Her story really captures the challenges she has faced. After working with Katie you will truly understand why she creates game-changing noise about Trans Rights and the role that you play as an Ally. Katie’s mission to educate and push for real change is critical, she has found the perfect way to connect with individuals and businesses. Her work will change the way people think, behave and will ultimately change the world for sureKatie is a true professional and a beautiful person with an incredible story to tell. I look forward to working with her again in the future.” – Jo Major, Head of External Relations for The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).
  • Inspirational storytelling at its best. I was lucky enough to listen to Katie’s story and can openly and honestly say it was incredible to hear.   I can honestly say it was eye opening, informative and inspirational to say the least.  What a journey you’ve had Katie. Thank you for sharing it.” – Byron Jervis, Regional Community Wayleave Officer, Virgin Media O2

 


If you are interested in booking a trans awareness training course, please CONTACT ME  or call me on 07973 638 591.

Trans Inclusion E-learning

This comprehensive, free Trans Inclusion e-learning course, developed by Trans in the City, Cool2BTrans and Global Butterflies, includes the information you need to understand the fundamentals of trans awareness, explained by trans and non-binary role models and allies.  It covers the science behind being trans and non-binary genders, how individuals, their friends and family are affected and how society deals with the huge variety of different trans and non-binary people. Most importantly, it covers what you can do to help and be an effective ally.

Modules can be viewed together to create an overall programme, or individually, according to your organisation’s own DE&I needs.   They include:

  • Why Should You Care About Trans Inclusion In Your Workplace?
  • Key Terminology
  • Intersectional Identities
  • Trans & Non-Binary Allyship
  • Psychological Safety, Wellbeing & Healthcare
  • Trans Once Removed; Families, Parents &Friends
  • Transitioning
  • What Does A Good Organisation Look Like?

Please CLICK HERE to gain access to the e-learning videos.

Katie Neeves

Trans Ambassador
I am a woman on a mission! But not just any woman and not just any mission…

Being an openly transgender woman and a trans ambassador, I am on a mission to not only show that it’s OK to be trans, but it’s actually cool to be trans too!

Through my media appearances, public speaking engagements, blog, vlog, social media, trans awareness training courses and via support groups, my aim is to reach out to trans people who may be struggling with their gender identity, to reassure them and to lead by example. I want to help educate the general public too. The more people who are educated about trans issues, the greater the acceptance and the easier it will be for trans people to live their lives in peace. Most bigotry and prejudice comes from ignorance and fear of the unknown. Education can and does save lives.

Cool2BTrans - Katie Neeves - Trans Ambassador - Trans Awareness Training | Media Appearances | Public Speaking | Mentoring & Support

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Katie Neeves

Trans Ambassador

Contact Katie