The University is committed to ensuring we provide an inclusive and welcoming community where all staff and students are enabled to meet their full potential and are treated as individuals. This includes providing support and understanding to those who wish to take, or have taken, steps to present themselves in a gender different to their birth gender.
We are aware that the impact of Covid-19 is particularly acute for trans and non-binary colleagues, and that their situation is compounded by the uncertainties surrounding the implementation of proposed changes to the Gender Recognition Act 2004.The proposals would make it more straightforward for trans people to get legal recognition of their gender, and would improve the lives of many trans people immeasurably. The majority of the public responses to the consultation on reforming the Gender Recognition Act supported the proposed changes.
We stand firmly with our trans and non-binary colleagues in calling for trans equality, with better support and recognition for trans and non-binary people and the struggles they face.
We know that we, as an institution, still have work to do, but we are unequivocal in our commitment to make the University a safe and welcoming place for staff and students of all genders and identities.
Trans people are our colleagues, our students, our friends, and we will continue to support them on the journey to true equality.
If you would like to learn how to be an ally, or wish to find out more about the rights of trans and non-binary people, further information is available from Mermaids and Stonewall.
University resources
- Management guidelines to support the return to working on campus are being developed and will include specific references to vulnerable groups including trans and non-binary people. This content will be shared with the LGBT+ Staff Network.
- Staff guide to gender reassignment in the workplace
- Support available for trans students