In October 2014 TAGS (London trans* and gender non-conforming swimming) group had its first ever session in Lewisham. It was quite evident, from the attendance that the swimming was a success. It has given the South East trans* community a safe place to swim every week for the last year. As project manager, I have always felt that TAGS should have more spaces. TAGS Leicester was started, so I thought why not TAGS Birmingham.

On Sunday 11th October Birmingham had its first trans* only swimming group in Birmingham. Myself and other TAGS colleagues managed to find the Moseley space after clumbing bags and banners back from 4 bus stops too far. No ones fault, just one of those things.

Sighing with relief, we managed to find the space. Hesitant and nervous I walked quickly, wondering how many swimmers we had. How surprised was I when I opened the pool doors to see a packed space. The hard work had paid off.

The pool was an aray of colour and excited voices as swimmers from Birmingham West Midlands , Leicester, Nottingham and London enjoyed a splash. There was Aquatic Yoga on hand and quickly people got involved. The hour went quickly and it was great to all head back to the Birmingham LGBT centre for food tea and communinty cohesion.

Feedback was good

” Thanks to the organisers for bringing TAGS to Birmingham. I had a lovely time, hopefully it will continue”

For more pictures, look at the photo album.

For more information about TAGS look at their members page on this website.

Written by Roberta from TAGS