Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) draft updated Code of Practice in Parliament published

Yesterday, the Minister for Women and Equalities laid an updated draft EHRC Code of Practice on Services, Public Functions and Associations before Parliament. This follows last year’s Supreme Court ruling that the definition of a woman under the Equality Act should be based on biological sex.

What the Code of Practice includes

The Code of Practice is aimed at guiding organisations such as hospitals, leisure centres and other service providers in understanding how they can follow equality law, including in relation to single and separate-sex services such as toilets and changing rooms.

The newly published code states that some services must be provided on the basis of biological sex in order for it to be classed as single-sex under the Equality Act. This may mean that trans people could be excluded from certain services. This is understandably causing worry and distress for some people.

Our response

Whilst the detail of the guidance is still being reviewed and understood, we wanted to acknowledge the potential impact on our trans, non-binary and intersex volunteers, colleagues and community, particularly around feelings of inclusion, acceptance and safety.

We also want to reiterate at the heart of our values is a commitment to being here for everyone affected by MS.

What this means for volunteers and support available

If you have been impacted emotionally by this news, we would encourage you to speak to your volunteer manager to access the wellbeing support available.

If you have questions or concerns about what this update may mean for services or activities run by your group, please contact your local MS Help Team for support and guidance. Their details can be found here on Assemble.

If you’ve been affected emotionally by this news and would like support for your own wellbeing, please speak to your volunteer manager. Group Coordinators can contact their local MS Help Team staff, again, these details can be found here on the Volunteer Website.