And clothing is not nessasarily an issue. Most people i have spoken too who are MtF like me got really dolled up for there first appointment, But to be fair this is not nessasary last time i just went in my usual jeans and t-shirt. Remember it's about you feeling comfortable within yourself not fitting into some sterotype.

Quote from: Jayne on August 28, 2013, 12:00:13 PM
When I had my second session I was told that in spite of the fact that I changed my name a year ago, have been wearing nail varnish every day for almost 3 years, always wear a bra with padding but keep my clothes gender neutral they wanted me to be full time before they started HRT!!
Up until then I thought I was as full time as possible but i'd been advised not to start electrolysis until i'd started HRT to reduce the amount needed & therefore do less damage to my skin. My second psychiatrist seemed to think that because I hadn't hidden my 5 O'clock shadow that I failed in being full time, if I had used make-up to hide it every day i'd have probably been hospitalised several times in the last 3 years due to severe eczema flare ups, even without make-up the skin on my face is red & weeps constantly (with make-up i'd look like an extra in a zombie film within days, lol)

The second psych accepted me as full time and started prescribing the hormones I was already taking.  That is, apart from the Eflora I use to remove the five o'clock shadow.  The third reckoned I was no longer full time as I had been made redundant and was therefore not "Going to work as female".

Quote from: Jayne on August 28, 2013, 12:00:13 PM
At this point in time I would however advise people to try to avoid Charing Cross clinic as they are under strain from the amount of patients they have, they are working hard to train new staff to meet the pressure but it will take time before things improve.

Is it possible to avoid the clinic in whose catchment area you find yourself?

Quote from: MaryXYX on August 29, 2013, 10:00:11 AM
Is it possible to avoid the clinic in whose catchment area you find yourself?

Yes. Under the new protocols, you have the right to request a referral to any clinic in the country.

Quote from: Akira21 ♡♡♡ on August 29, 2013, 08:33:54 AM
Oh and GPs are often awful.  On my first contact with a GP, she told me that the nhs don't support gender change and I would have to do everything myself privately.  I had to give them the guidance and still they didn't follow it.

Try doing a google search for GIRES, they have at least 5 printable leaflets for patients & GP's outlining procedures, i've had to insist to past GP's that they look them up to clarify issues.
They may not be updated to the new protocols but they should still be of assistance