Charlotte Johnson
Advocate, fundraiser and influencer
Charlotte is a 30-year-old advocate for adults with learning disabilities, fundraiser and influencer from Wakefield, West Yorkshire.
Charlotte lives independently and is supported by a team from the charity organisation, Choice Support. She identifies as a transgender woman. Working across the UK, she promotes sex and relationship equality for adults with learning disabilities. She shares her experience of life as an independent transgender woman – including very ordinary things like shopping, navigating relationships and spending time with friends – through her writing and talks.
Charlotte is an active member of the Supported Loving campaign and network, founded by Dr Claire Bates. In 2018, Charlotte, alongside Choice Support Supported Living Manager, Founder and Project Lead Christian Buchan, founded 2buWakefield which is a monthly social group for LGBTQ+ adults with learning disabilities in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.
In 2019, Charlotte delivered a presentation, alongside Dr Claire Bates and Christian Buchan, to the British Royal Psychological Society promoting Supported Loving and 2buWakefield. She has also spoken at other conferences including an annual learning disability event in Manchester.
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought delay to Charlotte’s referral to Leeds Gender Clinic and a pause to her work with 2buWakefiled. However, it has not stopped her drive and ambition towards promoting her LGBTQ+ experiences and breaking down the many barriers that surround her.
Useful links and information
www.choicesupport.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/supported-loving
“I have fought hard for my identity and am determined to be myself; I love being transgender and I am proud of who I am. Although I still face struggles with other people’s perceptions of me, with the help and encouragement of my team of support workers, I tackle this head on. I will keep working to break down barriers associated with my learning disability and identity.”