In April, the UK Supreme Court issued a ruling clarifying that references to “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer to biological sex. This decision has prompted widespread discussion and concern, particularly around the implications for trans and non-binary people in areas such as single-sex spaces and service provision.
At ForHousing, we recognised the potential for this ruling to create uncertainty, not only for our colleagues and tenants, but also for the wider communities we serve. In response, we took immediate steps to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, dignity, and respect for all.
Our approach has been clear and consistent:
- We are not making any changes to our policies or services as a result of the ruling.
- We believe that exclusionary practices are not aligned with our values or the needs of our communities.
- We continue to welcome and support trans and non-binary people in accessing the spaces and services that align with their identity.
While the ruling provides legal clarity, it does not mandate exclusion. We are mindful that any changes to policy must still comply with human rights obligations and anti-discrimination laws. We are monitoring forthcoming statutory guidance and will seek legal advice as needed, but our guiding principle remains unchanged: to create environments where everyone can be themselves and thrive.
This moment has reinforced our commitment to being a values-led organisation. We are proud to stand with our trans and non-binary colleagues and customers, and we remain focused on building inclusive communities where everyone feels they belong.
