Gwent Police has withdrawn a policy that permitted transgender officers to use toilets and changing rooms corresponding to their gender identity, following a threat of legal action from a women's rights organization. The force had previously stated that "trans members of staff are entitled to use the facilities of the gender in which they present." This declaration was seen as a breach of new equality guidance.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission's (EHRC) updated code of practice, approved by ministers, clarifies that transgender individuals should be offered gender-neutral spaces instead of female-only facilities. This guidance aligns with a Supreme Court ruling that defined 'woman' under the Equality Act based on biological sex.
The Women's Rights Network had obtained Gwent Police's gender policies through Freedom of Information requests, revealing that many forces were amending their policies. However, Gwent Police initially maintained its position. The organization then threatened legal action.
Now, Gwent Police has scrapped its "Transitioning in the Workplace" policy, which had stipulated that toilets, changing rooms, and showers were not segregated by biological sex for both officers and the public.
Cathy Larkman, Director and National Policing lead with the Women's Rights Network, expressed relief that the "unlawful policy" was withdrawn but voiced concern that it required a legal threat to ensure compliance with the rights of female officers. She criticized the delay in establishing a new policy, stating that compliance with the law should be immediate and does not necessitate extensive consultation.
A spokesperson for Gwent Police confirmed the policy's revocation, stating, "We are committed to an inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, respected and able to be themselves." The spokesperson added that the force is proactively ensuring its environments are inclusive and safe for all. The Trans Inclusion Policy has been reviewed in light of recent EHRC guidance on public spaces, and the force is awaiting further guidance regarding workplaces. A revised policy is currently undergoing consultation with staff networks and will be published thereafter.