Gender renaissance: the impact of animation, the production process and film (Good Hearts Model 2011) in tackling issues surrounding and relating to having a parent who is transgender

The Trans Research Review states that 'it is only in the last decade that trans people have been accorded rights and given protection in law from discrimination. There is growing recognition of the discrimination, inequalities and social exclusion that trans people face by policy makers and the public.’ It goes on to say that ‘existing evidence suggests that trans people experience high levels of discrimination in key areas of life,’ and that ‘there is an urgent need to carry out research on the families, households and relationships of trans people.’ This paper and the subsequent creative outputs (Animation, Live action films, scripts, sound recordings, artwork) are the result of a methodology developed from using the Animation process to solve particular problems. In this instance, using the film making process to understand the impact of having a parent who is transgender and to allow a therapeutic experience to occur through the engagement with animation processes and methods. The process is a complex procedure that has been developed into an adaptable model (The Good Heart Model). The GHM is a theoretical and practical methodology that references use of Person-centered Therapy, service user lead experience and Ignatius Spirituality. It considers the principles of auto ethnography, and how one facilitates the therapeutic environment, the production process and technique. It also utilises optimum frequency of physical activity. I found that the methods I developed; enabled the participants to mix with others in similar positions, allowed a safe environment to express their thoughts and feelings, provided a vehicle to express to others a message (anonymously), to reflect upon their own responses to the circumstances. This was a pilot project and collaboration between the University of Sunderland, the NHS, and Barnardos.