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Tributes paid to transgender rights activist

This news post is over 8 years old
 

Danielle Robins (21) was found dead in her flat in Dundee on Sunday

Tributes have been paid to a transgender rights activist who was found dead in her flat in Dundee on Sunday.

Twenty-one-year-old Danielle Robins was a student at Abertay University, where she was also president of the LGBT society.

Her body was discovered by friends in her city centre flat after they visited concerned that they couldn't contact her.

LGBT Youth Scotland said it was deeply saddened by the news of Danielle’s sudden death.

A spokesperson said: “Danielle was an active campaigner for LGBT equality, working to eliminate prejudice and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Dundee.

Danielle was an inspiring young woman who inspired many people

“Danielle was an inspiring young woman, who’s commitment to campaigning for change had impact far and beyond the city of Dundee, inspiring many people’s lives.

“Taking part in LGBT Youth Scotland’s TRANSport residential last year, Danielle brought her energy and enthusiasm to this national project, which set out to support transgender young people to engage in sport.

“LGBT Youth Scotland is committed to championing the issues Danielle spoke out about, and will continue to work to improve life in Scotland for LGBT young people, ensuring trans rights are upheld, and that LGBT young people feel safe, respected and included as full members of the Scottish family.

“Our thoughts are with Danielle’s family and friends at this time, and we encourage any young people seeking advice and support to get in touch with their local LGBT youth group, or contact breathing space if out of hours support is required.”

Just two weeks before her death, Danielle, who was a transgender woman, proudly spoke to a local Dundee newspaper to say the LGBT Society was leading the way in eliminating prejudice against the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.

At the time Danielle, originally from Northop in Wales, said since being at Abertay, where she was studying computing, she had had a hugely positive response.

James Morton, of the Scottish Transgender Alliance, said the news was “incredibly tragic” and would affect many people in the trans community in Dundee.

“Danielle was such an inspiring person who has done so much for LGBT equality in the city,” he added.

“Life can be very difficult for young people trying to transition and Danielle was making an incredible difference.”

As with all sudden deaths Police Scotland has submitted a report to the procurator fiscal.

Breathing space can be contacted on 0800 83 85 87. Contact details for LGBT youth groups can be found at www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/youth-groups or by calling 0131 555 3940.