A TRANSGENDER woman has shared her inspirational story of overcoming abuse and violence to achieve her ambitions.

Originally from Cambridge, last year Sally Wall relocated to Barrow to join the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCft) as a counsellor.

It was not a straightforward path for Sally but to mark the start of Pride Month she has told her story.

From the age of 13 Sally began to visualize a young female figure who was calm, happy, and peaceful.

It was only later on that Sally realised that the figure was in fact herself.

With the help of her drama teacher at the age of 21, Sally began to recognise she was starting her own transgender journey.

Sally was accused of attention-seeking and wasn’t able to dress how she wanted.

She decided to move away to Luton to go to University but was subjected to mental and physical abuse.

Sally added: "I knew one day I would be grateful for everything I have been through and that my future self would thank me.

"I do thank myself that I was strong and fought through the difficult times.

"I left university with a 2:1 in my psychology degree and managed to reset some boundaries of what was possible, so I'm incredibly proud of myself."

Pursuing her counselling carer meant taking a placement in Dagenham in 2005.

During her short time in Dagenham, Sally was subject to instances of sexual harassment, threatening behaviour, and physical violence, placing a huge strain on her mental well-being.

So she decided to take a step back and enjoy family time with her daughter before restudying to qualify as a counsellor in 2011.

Sally continues: "I've worked at a variety of organisations including a homeless hostel and charity groups before joining LSCft last year and relocating to Barrow.

"Reaching out and asking for help is often the first and biggest hurdle but there is always somebody out there who can help and listen.

“Find support groups, join staff networks and if anybody wants to reach out and share their story with me I would be honoured."

You can speak to Sally via the Kaleidoscope LGBT group in Barrow on 01229 812 888 or email drop_zone@ btconnect.com.