Single-sex space guidance for organisations to be published after May elections
Single-Sex Space Guidance for Organizations to Be Published After May Elections
Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson announced that the UK government plans to release updated guidance on single-sex spaces in the coming month, following the May 7 elections. The latest draft from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) was submitted on Monday, but election schedules have delayed further government statements on the issue.
Supreme Court Ruling and Legal Context
The EHRC’s Code of Practice, which guides public bodies on implementing equality law, is being revised in response to a Supreme Court decision. This ruling redefined the term “woman” under the Equality Act, linking it to biological sex. The first version of the code was submitted in September but has since undergone adjustments.
Amendments and Purpose
Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, chair of the EHRC, noted that recent changes to the draft were influenced by a limited set of government feedback, alongside consultation responses and legal insights. These revisions are intended to clarify how the Equality Act applies in everyday situations, ensuring service users are treated with dignity and respect.
Stakeholder Reactions
“Amending the draft is a positive step, as the earlier version was unworkable,” said Alex Parmar-Yee of the Trans+ Solidarity Alliance. She emphasized that trans-inclusive provision must align with international human rights standards and Labour’s commitments to the trans community.
Maya Forstater, CEO of Sex Matters, criticized the delay, stating, “It’s extraordinary that a year after the Supreme Court’s decision and seven months after the initial code submission, the government still finds excuses to postpone publication.”
Approval and Statutory Process
Once the revised code is approved, it will be presented to Parliament for a 40-day review period. If no motion is passed to reject it, the guidance will become legally binding. The Commons resumes sessions after the State Opening of Parliament on May 13, before a recess starting May 21.
Philippson highlighted that the government is taking urgent steps to finalize the guidance, ensuring it reflects the Supreme Court’s clarification that trans protections are already embedded within the Equality Act. The updated document aims to balance biological sex-based access with legal compliance, though its timeline has sparked debate among advocates.
