The number of transgender people living in the UK is estimated to be between 300,000 and 500,000, with the majority of these being people who identify as male to female or female to male. This figure is based on estimates from Stonewall, the UK's largest LGBT charity, and the UK Government's National LGBT Survey.
The exact number of transgender people in the UK is difficult to accurately measure, as many people may not be open about their gender identity. The National LGBT Survey, which was conducted in 2017, found that more than 1 in 5 LGBT people in the UK identify as transgender (21%).
Transgender people are more likely to experience discrimination, harassment and violence than other LGBT people. Research from Stonewall also shows that trans people are more likely to experience poorer mental health, with over half of trans people reporting that they have attempted suicide at least once in their lifetime.
It is also important to note that not all transgender people identify as transsexual, and many do not undergo gender reassignment surgery or take hormones. Transsexual is an outdated term used to describe people who have transitioned to the opposite gender, but this term is no longer used in the UK.
The UK has a long way to go in terms of protecting the rights of transgender people. Despite the progress that has been made in recent years, discrimination, harassment and violence against transgender people is still a major issue.
It is therefore essential that the government and other organisations work towards creating a society that is more accepting and inclusive of transgender people. This includes introducing legislation to protect the rights of transgender people, and providing adequate support and services for trans people in the UK.