Why is There Peer Support?
Not all of us have people in our life that understands that we are going through. It is important to have people that we can connect with who have the same shared experiences. Many of us have felt isolated due to not fitting in with those around us. Peer support brings people together with those same shard experiences. It can help them feel like they belong and are normal.
Can I Join Peer Support?
We try to keep our meeting open to as many people as we can, so anyone of a gender minority can join. We will never ask what gender you are. Even if you are still questioning who you are, you are welcome to join.
There is 3 main reason why you may not be able to join.
One) Those wanting to support a friend or family member of a gender minority. There are many other groups out there for you to join. A list of them can be found on the TENI website https://www.teni.ie/supports/
Two) Being under the age of 18, again there are many other groups that you can join. A list of them can be found on the TENI website https://www.teni.ie/supports/
Three) Those wishing to do research on our community. We are happy to share your call out for participants(within reasons) but due to the nature of peer support, you setting in on one is not suitable. If you are a researcher please contact us for more information info@genderreblescork.com
All other events are open to everyone, so if you want to bring a friend along to a gaming session or a picnic you are welcome to do so.
What Happens at Peer Support?
We open with a round of introductions. With people giving their names and pronouns. This is a great way to try out a name or pronoun in a safe and understanding environment.
The host will ask people how they have been since last we meet. Topics discussed can be about our gender identity or whatever is on your mind. What topics we cover is based on what people want to talk about. Sometimes all we talk about is films and tv shows we like. Other times someone might ask about transition like how to legally change their name and people reply with how they did it.
We end with what everyone got from the meeting and say our goodbyes until the next time.
Who is The Host?
The host is a volunteer of Gender Rebels and will moderate the discussion to make sure the meeting is staying in line with our safer spaces policy.
What is there a Safer Space Policy?
This policy is there to make sure the meeting runs smoothly and that people feel like they can safely share. You can find the full policy here.
Do I Have to Talk?
If you don't want to talk, then you don't have to. It's about taking it at the level you feel comfortable with.
How Old Are The People in Peer Support?
The ages range of people joining in peer support changes over time but usually, they are in their 20's and 30's. Although we are welcoming of anyone over the age of 18 and we have people 70+ join us in the past. Gender is a journey and some people don't start this journey until later in life.
How Do I Join?
At the moment we are meeting online via Zoom call. The link for this call will be listed in our Facebook group. If you are not on Facebook you can email us at info@genderrebelscork.com for the link
How Frequently Dose Peer Support Happens?
It happens once a month on the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm
Do I Need to be Living in Cork to Join Peer Support?
No, you don’t need to be living in Cork to join. With some much of our event now being online, it’s open those events to you no matter where you are living.