Changing Faces, UK

"It’s more than just a tagline—it’s a movement. And what a way to begin the honour of representing Changing Faces as a volunteer campaigner." - Romeo. New campaigners Romeo, Crystal and Katie took part in the Anthony Lexa x Changing Faces photoshoot recently, to celebrate the strength and resilience and beauty that can be found in having a visible difference. The tagline: "Beauty Isn't Skin Deep", taken from a line of Anthony's new song 'Terrified', which was inspired by her healing as she went through Topical Steroid Withdrawal. Ant says: "I am shocked and in awe at my own resilience and i believe THAT is the true meaning of beauty." The photoshoot was more than just to show off the new and sustainable collection. It was a celebration of what makes us unique—the courage to embrace our differences and the power in being our true selves. Visible difference is so often underrepresented in mainstream media, fashion and by brands. All these incredible individuals showed up with confidence and authenticity - to redefine beauty standards and celebrate who they are. We'd like to thank everyone who has supported this campaign so far. All proceeds go directly to Changing Faces, helping us continue our vital work supporting individuals with visible differences through our wellbeing services, skin camouflage support, and advocacy efforts. Shop the collection here: https://lnkd.in/ehzmqtiY

“Hi, I’m Anthony, though you might know me as Abbi from Sex Education on Netflix. I’m a transgender actress, singer-songwriter, and a proud advocate for visible differences. For most of my life, I’ve lived with chronic eczema, ichthyosis vulgaris, and more recently, a condition called Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). “Living with this condition can be debilitating, and earlier this year I was forced to move back in with my parents as a result of the severity of my symptoms. Battling both visible scars and the constant reality of gender dysphoria is a challenge that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. But with every day I push through, I find strength I never knew I had. I've learnt to find beauty in the smallest things - a pretty hair bow, a new flower on my rose bush, or the simple act of getting out of the bath without pain. “Music has been my lifeline, and my new single "Terrified" is all about healing, self-care, and shifting the narrative around visible differences. One line in particular speaks to me: “Beauty isn’t skin deep.” This became the inspiration behind my new collection of tees and hoodies, with all profits going to Changing Faces – a charity that’s been a lifeline for me this year. Their counselling support has helped me navigate the emotional and social challenges of my condition, and it’s given me the strength to face the world with pride, even on my toughest days. “I want this collection to not only give back to Changing Faces but also to inspire others to find beauty in their own unique stories, no matter what their skin or visible differences might look like. “To anyone out there facing struggles with their own visible differences, remember: your worth is not defined by your skin. Embrace your journey, because every tough day makes you even more beautiful and powerful than you realise. “Stay strong. Stay visible. You are beautiful.” 🔗 Check out the Changing Faces x Anthony Lexa collection: https://lnkd.in/eMQg2zTp

We’re so excited to announce that Changing Faces has teamed up with Sex Education star Anthony Lexa to launch a powerful new clothing collection that champions the message: "Beauty Isn't Skin Deep." 🌟 Designed by Anthony’s sister, Chloe Duncan Art, the collection features bold pieces that proudly carry the Changing Faces brand and its commitment to celebrating visible differences. The slogan holds deep personal meaning to Anthony, and reminds us that it’s the strength, resilience, and authenticity of individuals that make them shine—not how they look on the outside. The photoshoot for this collection was a true celebration of diversity, featuring a team of visible difference allies and skin advocates who came together to stand proudly in their uniqueness. This collaboration is not just about fashion—it’s about representation, empowerment, and visibility for everyone, no matter what their skin or appearance looks like. We’re proud to support this initiative and encourage you to wear it loud and proud. Join us in spreading the message that beauty isn't skin deep! 💛 Shop here: www.beautyisntskindeep.com

Say hello to our new campaigners! We’re thrilled to introduce the newest members of the Changing Faces Campaigners Programme. These incredible individuals are leading the way for a more inclusive and accepting world for people with visible differences. At Changing Faces, we’re passionate about improving understanding of visible differences and reducing discrimination for those who live with a visible difference. Our Campaigners’ Programme is a key part of this, and this year, we had the most applications we've ever had. 👏 A big thank you to every single person who expressed interest in joining this important movement. Our new campaigners are ready to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and amplify the message that no one should be judged based on their appearance. Whether through social media, community events, or public speaking, they will be using their voices to make a tangible impact for the visible difference community. With 21 campaigners, each bringing their unique experiences, talents and passions, we're excited to see the difference they will make. Let’s give them a warm welcome and show our support as they work towards a more inclusive future! Meet our new cohort: https://ow.ly/eT1550U8YnR

It’s #AntiBullyingWeek and we’ve been sent a poem by Ryan, an inspiring 11-year-old. Ryan, who has a congenital nevi birthmark, was recently asked to create a speech at school about discrimination. He chose to reflect on some of his personal experiences, sharing how he’s been called a ‘freak’ by other children. While those comments made him feel uncomfortable and sometimes bad about himself, Ryan has learnt to explain his birthmark – what it is, how it’s caused, and that it’s a part of him that can’t be changed. Ryan says: “My birthmark doesn’t bother me, it’s how people respond that can be tricky.” Through his speech, he hopes to raise awareness about how it feels to face unkind comments and discrimination. His mum, Gemma, says: “I found the speech tucked away in his bag. He rarely talks about his birthmark, so it was a surprise to see this written down, ready for his next lesson. We found it incredibly powerful.” By sharing his poem, Ryan hopes to help others understand the impact of unkind words and encourage more empathy and respect in our communities. Let’s all stand together against bullying and support one another with kindness. 🌟 The poem reads: Are we freaks? Are we freaks? Just because our birthmarks and skin tones are different? Are we freaks? Do we deserve this? Are we freaks? I wish I could walk around proudly displaying my birthmark but no Are we freaks? Many people are afraid of even showing their skin Are we freaks? Will you let the wave of discrimination drown you or will you make an ark and save as many people as possible? Thank you, Ryan, for sharing this powerful poem.

It's #AntiBullyingWeek and today our campaigner Hannah is asking people to choose respect when talking to people with visible differences.   Hannah says: "To create a more understanding and accepting society, we need to educate children early on about visible differences and learn how best to handle their curiosity. If we don’t, ignorance can turn into bullying, and that’s what we want to avoid. "For people with visible differences, it’s not uncommon to have people stare or comment on their appearance due to curiosity. A desire to learn is fine, but how we speak to people about their visible differences can have a huge impact on that person’s day depending on the tone and words used." "We need to talk about visible differences to improve acceptance and reduce discrimination and bullying. However, we must have these conversations in a positive way that ensures both parties go away feeling comfortable and happy." Read Hannah's blog in full: https://lnkd.in/eFCA3c5r

📚🌈 Fabulous News! 🌈📚 Today, we’re celebrating the launch of Find Your Fabulous by Vie Portland—a beautiful book that brings positive, empowering representation and teaches children to love themselves and others. 🎉✨ This inspiring story also features children with visible differences - so swipe to see the adorable Lottie Thomson illustrations of Changing Faces supporters William, April and Finley – who where thrilled to take part. In a world where positive portrayals of visible difference is rare, it’s this book gives children the chance to see themselves as heroes within its pages. By sharing stories that reflect real, diverse experiences, Vie Portland is paving the way for a future where every child can embrace who they are and feel proud of it. 🌟❤️ #FindingMyFabulous #RepresentationMatters #InclusiveBooks

Exciting announcement! 📣 We’re thrilled to welcome Helen Marshall as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees at Changing Faces. Helen will take up her new role in December, following David Clayton, who has been our invaluable leader since 2015. Helen, currently CEO at Brook, brings over 35 years of leadership experience in both private and charitable sectors, with a strong passion for social justice and improving outcomes for vulnerable communities. Helen is eager to work closely with our community to continue challenging stigma, promoting inclusivity, and supporting the 20% of people in the UK with a visible difference. A huge thank you to David for his dedication and impactful leadership. We’re looking forward to this new chapter with Helen at the helm. Read more: https://ow.ly/igl150U0pVW

🌟 Incredible news for Crystal, but also for representation in the arts! 🌟 Today we're celebrating Crystal, who has recently graduated from LAMDA - the UK's top drama school. Crystal also received the first-ever Roy Kinnear Award for her contribution to the school and the arts. Crystal says: "It's a great honour for me, particularly as I walk into an industry that has overlooked and undervalued people with visible differences. I'm blessed that my work has been noticed. Anyone with a visible difference can act, perform and choose whatever career path they decide." For too long, people with visible differences have been underrepresented or cast in stereotypical roles - often as villains or "damaged" characters. We're campaigning for a future that sees more talent with visible differences, like Crystal, stepping into roles that portray more nuanced, authentic characters and end the outdated, harmful tropes that continue to dominate the industry. Here’s to inspiring a new generation of actors to break barriers, and to bringing truly diverse stories to life. Take a look at Crystal's time on stage at LAMDA. 🎭 #RepresentationMatters #ChangingTheNarrative

“I’m Debbie and in February 2023 I was diagnosed with a T3 tumour in my lower jaw. I was totally devastated. “29 days later, I was operated on at a hospital in Dundee. They removed my lower jaw and 54 lymph nodes in my neck. My face was recreated using the fibula of my right leg. “My face was changed forever, despite the amazing work that the doctors did. “I receive the odd stare when I’m out and about, but I don’t let it upset me. Mainly the curiosity comes from people who vaguely know me from walking the dog. They ask if I was in an accident, as I now use a stick, and I have no problem telling people I have had cancer. “I am now proud of my face. It proves that I am a warrior. The first day after my surgery, I decided to take pictures of myself so I could track my progress and get used to the way I looked. I knew that it was important that I learn to accept what happened to me, and it’s amazing to look back on those pictures and see how far I’ve come. “Although I will always have pain and get stares from other people, I really don’t mind. I am still here, still me, and still fabulous! “My mantra throughout has been ‘I am brave, I am not broken.’ During the bad days in my month-long hospital stay, this was something I clung to. Things will get better.” Debbie’s story: https://ow.ly/cwlT50TX52q