Today, March 31, 2026, marks International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV).

Rutland Marks Transgender Day of Visibility 2026
By Martin Brookes March 31, 2026

Today marks International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV), a global event dedicated to celebrating transgender and non-binary people while raising awareness of the work still needed to achieve full equality.

Unlike many awareness days that focus on hardship and loss, TDOV highlights achievement, resilience and the importance of simply being seen. Founded in 2009, it was created to provide a positive counterpart to November’s Transgender Day of Remembrance, which honours those lost to anti-trans violence.

For many transgender people, visibility is powerful. Living openly can challenge misconceptions and help foster greater understanding within communities. For others who may not yet feel able to share their identity, seeing people live authentically offers hope and reassurance that they are not alone.

Support Available Across Rutland

Despite being England’s smallest county, Rutland offers a range of support for LGBTQ+ residents:

LGBTQ+ Youth Rutland, run by Rutland County Council, provides a safe and confidential space for young people aged 13–18. Sessions are divided by school years, allowing young people to socialise and express themselves freely.
Contact: ypservices@rutland.gov.uk

The Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre remains a key regional hub, offering counselling, support groups and health services for transgender and non-binary people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Contact: 0116 254 7412

Opening Doors supports LGBTQ+ people aged 50 and over, helping to reduce isolation and encourage community connections.

Local GP practices and the Rutland Information Service also provide guidance on gender identity healthcare and wellbeing resources.

Local Recognition and Action

Rutland organisations are marking TDOV with a renewed focus on inclusion and support.

Rutland County Council has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that “no group or individual is marginalised or ignored” as part of its Future Rutland vision. The council continues to promote its youth services as a vital resource for young people exploring their identity.

Healthcare providers across the county are also taking steps forward. Many GP surgeries have adopted updated Gender Identity Toolkits, helping staff provide respectful and inclusive care.

Practices including Oakham Medical Practice, Empingham Medical Centre, Uppingham Surgery, and the Market Overton and Somerby surgeries are working within regional guidelines to ensure patients are treated with dignity, including the use of correct names and pronouns.

How Residents Can Show Support

Residents are encouraged to mark the day through small but meaningful acts of allyship.

This can include adding pronouns to email signatures, challenging discriminatory language, supporting inclusive initiatives, or simply taking time to learn more about transgender experiences.

As campaigners often stress, visibility is not only about being seen—it is about being understood and respected.

For more: 

LGBTQ+ News please Visit  Oakham and Rutland News LGBTQ+ Page Click Here.

London Trans+ Pride to Paint the Capital Pink and Blue for Eighth Consecutive Year

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 
https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

 

Sun Shines on a Day of Delights: The Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show here in Oakham, Rutland, Today, Video and Photos

Sun Shines on a Day of Delights: The Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show

The sun is gloriously shining today, casting a perfect light over Oakham's bustling marketplace for the much-anticipated Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show. Organised by the indefatigable Carolyn Acton, this event has brought the heart of Rutland together for a celebration of local talent, delicious treats, and some very good boys and girls at the dog show in the grounds of Oakham Castle

Stalls brimming with an incredible variety of food, drink, and artisanal crafts in the Castle, Victoria Hall and the market place drawing in a steady stream of visitors. 

"It's just fantastic to see so many people out enjoying themselves," said organiser Carolyn Acton, a beaming smile on her face as she surveyed the scene. "The weather is perfect, and the stallholders have put on an amazing display. We've got everything from local producers to unique craftspeople. It's all about showcasing the very best of what Rutland has to offer."

The real highlight of the day for many has been the Dog Show. A cornerstone of the festival, the show has seen a wonderful turnout of four-legged friends, all eager to show off their skills (and charm). From the 'Waggiest Tail' and 'Most Obedient' categories to the coveted 'Best in Show,' the competition has been good-natured and full of fun. The proud owners and enthusiastic onlookers have created a wonderfully supportive and cheerful atmosphere.

The success of the festival is a testament to the hard work of Carolyn Acton and her team, as well as the unwavering support of the local community. It's more than just a market; it's a social occasion, a chance for neighbours to catch up, for families to spend quality time together, and for visitors to discover the unique charm of Rutland.