LGBT support groups in Darlington are worried that the ongoing trans legal row at Darlington Memorial Hospital could spell an increase in violent homophobic and transphobic attacks. 

A group of nurses from County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust (CDDFT) have lodged an employment tribunal case for sexual discrimination and sexual harassment over a trans woman being allowed to use the female changing room.

Some members of the group, from Darlington Memorial Hospital's Day Surgery unit, spoke publicly about their legal challenge last month, saying they felt "unsafe" in the situation, and that they had been "intimidated and threatened" by the hospital's HR department. 

A spokesperson for CDDFT has said that "work continues" on their internal investigation into the issue. 

Phoenix Trans, a support group for transgender individuals in Darlington has said they are worried that they may face prejudice whilst being treated at the NHS, or that the case could stir up violent hatred in the North East. 

Member Jane Mitchell said: “We are finding that Christian Concern’s escalation of publicity about this case is stirring transphobia in a town where such prejudice has rarely surfaced in recent times. You only have to look at the huge popularity of Darlington Pride events to see that.”

She added concerns for the anonymous trans woman at the centre of the row - saying: "If she needs help, we urge her to contact us via Facebook. The same goes for anyone whose fears of public demonstrations of hatred have been heightened.” 

These concerns were echoed by Letty Davidson, the founder of Chester-le-Street-based group Egg Crackers, an LGBT support and social group. 

She said: "We've seen so many more attacks - it's definitely got worse recently.

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"A member of the group was nearly hit with a car in an attack last year - she, a trans woman, had been victimised for years. 

"There are so many incidents of transphobia and homophobia that we go through - it's not an over-exaggeration, it's our reality."

Christian Concern, the group funding nurses' legal action, was contacted but has not yet responded.