Casting Call

Mermaids is a charity that supports trans, non-binary and gender diverse young people and their families. Trans* young people are at the heart of everything we do and it’s their experiences that shape all of our services. 

This is the approach we’re bringing into the production of this video as we want to create a space for young trans* people in the UK to tell their stories. We want this project to be representative of different experiences and groups who share trans* identities. We are keen to hear from people who are often excluded from mainstream media coverage, such as trans people of colour, trans people of faith, trans people with disabilities, neurodivergent trans people and others. This is by no means an exhaustive list. 

Some of the Mermaids’ staff will be present at the day of the shooting and we’re working with a film production company with vast experience working with young people from diverse backgrounds. We will liaise with you to ensure you feel your voice is valued and that this will be a pleasant experience throughout. 

Overall themes of the video 

The content will ultimately be shaped by the people participating in this video, so please do not think of this as a structured script you will have to follow. These are just some pointers for you to get a feel of what the project might look like. 

We would like to explore what being trans* means to you, and learn more about your experiences. What was it like growing up? What brings you joy and happiness? What do you wish people would know about you and what would you like to tell trans* kids?

Profile and details: 

• We are looking for 5 people, aged 16 and over, based in the UK

• Location: London (but you don’t have to live in London to be involved)

• Provisional dates – The shoot will take place in one of the following days: Saturday 5th / Sunday 6th of June / Monday 7th of June (To be confirmed soon).
  
  
• Times: we expect each interviewee to spend 1.5 hour on set. We will have morning and afternoon time slots available. You can tell us your preferred times and we’ll do our best to accommodate everyone’s schedule.  

• £50 compensation. Travel costs covered and catering offered on set. 

What to expect on set

We expect each person to spend around 1.5 hours on set, both telling their story on camera and recording footage to be used as b-roll. We may also take some photos, should you feel comfortable with it. 

We will be following Covid-19 safety guidelines and everyone who’ll be present on set will be tested prior to the shoot day. 

Is this for you?

If you are comfortable bringing your life experience to the production, whatever trans* identity you have, then we’d love to hear from you. To register your interest, please complete this form so we can get to know you a little better, and we’ll be in touch soon.