I'm getting active this May and taking action to change the lives of young trans people across the UK. I'm challenging myself to get active for one very important reason. To help ensure trans young people and their families can continue to access the emotional, informative, and peer-to-peer support they deserve.

Trans, non-binary and gender queer people are under attack from all quarters, including our own government. Hate crimes against trans people have significantly risen in the past few years and many young people are being denied access to life-saving healthcare.

Mermaids' vision is a safe, inclusive society where trans young people are empowered to live their best lives. Mermaids say: Our amazing supporters are the reason we’re able to keep helping the trans community, year after year. So this May, we’re asking you to get active with your fundraising by taking on Miles for Mermaids.

Some of you may be aware that I have been suffering with quite debilitating sciatica for some months now. My mission is to walk 75 miles in May for Mermaids! Moving more will not only help me but help the lives of trans youth in the UK. I can't stand by and watch people in my own community be persecuted for being who they are. Any rights we have gained were won by standing together as one. Please support me this May.

If you'd like to follow my fundraising journey you can view my less than polished updates on Insta at rpd.m4m26