Who is the toolkit for?
This Toolkit is intended for service providers and advocates who work with trans and nonbinary victims of crime. It includes guidance for specific professional roles and types of crime, as well as more general information about trans people’s experiences with violence.
Where should I start?
Service providers who have little or no familiarity with trans people or communities are encouraged to start with the introductory sections of this Toolkit, particularly the Trans 101, Intro to Trans Affirming Services, and Overview of Experiences with Violence sections. It may also be helpful to explore the short tipsheets for quick information on topics like pronouns, responding to suicide, issues with law enforcement, and more.
All providers are encouraged to read sections specific to their work and the populations they serve. Many of the provider-focused sections have overlapping information that may be relevant to multiple professions. It is not necessary to read the Toolkit in its entirety to get useful information.
Types of Crime
Beyond the provider-specific sections, the Toolkit includes sections for individual types of crime. These do not capture every type of crime a trans or nonbinary person may experience, and do not capture every trans person’s experience. Each section includes the voices of trans community members whenever possible.
Where can I get more information?
Each section of the Toolkit contains resources for further reading and learning on individual topics, as well as connections to partner organizations that work with specific populations providers may serve.
How can I put these ideas into practice?
The majority of sections include a case example, with details drawn from the lived experiences of trans and nonbinary people. It also includes a set of questions to reflect on after reading the section and case examples. Providers are encouraged to engage with these case examples thoughtfully, as if they were serving a real client, and apply their new knowledge to the case example. Connect with your co-workers, team members, or colleagues to gain a broader multidisciplinary perspective and deeper understanding as you explore case examples.
Recognizing Gaps and Sharing Knowledge
In order to improve services for trans/nonbinary people, providers can increase their knowledge on providing services, addressing barriers, and filling in gaps. However, individual action is not enough to create the robust set of services that trans people need. Organizational change, collaboration, and systemic change are all necessary.
Providers and organizations are encouraged to consider where their practice is succeeding in meeting the needs of trans and nonbinary people, and where more education is needed. Share information from the Toolkit with fellow professionals and colleagues. Consider where more training is needed. Consider how information from this Toolkit can influence policy and practice beyond one individual provider or role.
Beyond the Toolkit
Best practices for working with trans and nonbinary people are always changing. This Toolkit includes recommendations based on the current time of writing and was last updated on August 15, 2026. Circumstances and policies for transgender people are constantly changing, and often differ across state lines. Victim services must continue to center those who are most vulnerable and meet the needs of all survivors by providing trans- and trauma-informed care and seeking continual education.