SAIL Trans Family Support
SAIL
Who We Are
SAIL (Support, Advocacy, Information and Linking resources and communities) is a family-focused service supporting transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse children, young people, and their families across Northern Ireland. Established in 2008 and rooted in community,SAIL offers a safe, welcoming space where families can access trusted information, connection, and support at every stage of their journey.
Through one-to-one support, family groups, and community-based programmes, we aim to reduce isolation, build confidence, and empower families to better understand and support their young people.
Our work is guided by compassion, lived experience, and a strong belief that every young person deserves to feel affirmed, valued, and able to thrive.
Today, SAIL continues to play a vital role in connecting families, strengthening communities, and advocate.
Practical, emotional, and peer-led
What We Do
At SAIL, we provide practical, emotional, and peer-led support to transgender and gender-diverse children, young people, and their families.
Our services include one-to-one support for parents, carers, and young people, offering a confidential space to talk, ask questions, and receive guidance tailored to individual needs.
We also run regular family support groups across Northern Ireland, creating opportunities for connection, shared experience, and community.
Alongside this, we provide trusted information and resources to help families better understand gender identity and navigate systems such as education and healthcare.
We also work in partnership with schools, professionals, and community organisations to promote inclusive practice and improve support for trans young people.
Our activities include:
- Local groups for families and young people
- Fun events and activities
- Workshops
- Family days
- Peer support opportunities
Our locations
We Have Groups In
Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, and Newry, with additional outreach groups delivered regularly across all Health and Social Care Trust areas in Northern Ireland.
We are here to support you through a range of options, including phone, email, groups, and one-to-one support.
Telephone: 02890319030
Email: sail@rainbow-project.org
Website: www.rainbow-project.org
Testimonials
What Our Community Says
“A memory I will always cherish — taking my daughter to the Belfast group for the first time.”
“I am so grateful to meet such wonderful people and to know we are on this journey together.”
“We all had the best time with the best people. Can we do it every weekend?”
“Knowing you are there for other families and that I am not alone means the world to me. Thank you so much.”
“My son is the best version of himself since we started coming to groups. The transformation is unbelievable. Thank you.”
Help & Advice
Other Ways We Can Support You
Everyone’s journey is different, and you may find that other services we offer can provide additional support, information or opportunities to connect with our community. Explore some of our related services below.
