Support for our trans, non-binary, genderqueer or gender non-conforming students

The Gender Expression Fund (GEF) is a Liberate LUU initiative that aims to make LUU more inclusive by supporting marginalised, underrepresented students. Any trans, non-binary, genderqueer or gender non-conforming student of Leeds University Union that wants access to items that will help them feel more comfortable can apply to the GEF. Whether it’s to combat gender dysphoria and/or support gender euphoria, we want our trans students to feel safe, valued, and celebrated. The first GEF at LUU launched in 2024 and helped 34 successful applicants and it is being reopened to mark the start of LGBTQ+ history month 2025. Apply now!

“I feel immensley grateful for the support that this fund offers, it reassures me that I’m welcome and accepted regardless of my gender expression.” Successful Applicant 2024. 

Applications open now.

This link is an external URL Apply now

Accessing the fund

The maximum amount that can be applied for is £50, and can be used to pay for an item(s), in part or in full.

Please note that the fund is intended for physical items (see here) or minor cosmetic procedures (such as ear piercings or hair cuts) only. We cannot fund medical procedures, therapy costs, hormone costs, transport to appointments, or contribute to savings/fundraisers for surgical procedures.

Once the application window closes and applications are assessed, you will be contacted for further information on how to receive the funds through a UK bank transfer, if you have been selected on this occasion as an awardee.

  • Submit the application form.
  • Your application will be reviewed by the Equality and Liberation Officer, a Liberation Coordinator, and administrative support will be supplied by the Democracy and Liberation Assistant, no longer than 10 working days after the application close date.
  • Once your application has been reviewed, you will be informed of the outcome by email (normally within 2 working days of the review) and asked to provide payment details.
  • Once we have received your payment details, we will pay you the amount applied for via BACS (bank transfer) within 3-5 working days.

Eligibility

  • You must be a registered student at the University of Leeds, and a member of LUU.
  • You must identify as either transgender, non-binary, intersex, genderqueer, gender-diverse or gender non-conforming.
  • You must be able to provide a clear outline of what you need from the fund, with some reasoning.
  • Your request must not exceed £50.
  • You must not plan to use the Fund to contribute to fundraisers, ‘GoFundMe’ pages or to give to others.

Applications are accessed on the basis of the following:

  • Meeting the eligibility criteria
  • Financial need
  • Impact the fund could have on the applicant’s sense of belonging and engagement at LUU

If you have any questions, please email LUU.PET@leeds.ac.uk.