Joint statement from the National LGBT+ and National Women’s Committee

Unite statement on recently published EHRC Draft Code of Practice

Unite’s National LGBT+ and National Women’s committees are currently undertaking a detailed review of the recently published EHRC Draft Code of Practice for Service Providers and Associations, issued under the Equality Act 2010 and now subject to a 40-day parliamentary scrutiny period. While this guidance does not apply to workplaces, we have significant concerns about its practical impact on our trans and non-binary members.

Our position remains unequivocal: Under the Equality Act 2010, gender reassignment is a protected characteristic and discrimination against any individual on this basis is unlawful. Unite will continue to robustly support any member who experiences discriminatory treatment.

We are seeking legal advice on the implications of the Draft Code and are working alongside other trade unions to raise our concerns with parliamentary colleagues. Once our review is complete and we have fully assessed any potential consequences for our members, we will issue further guidance and information.

Unite’s policy position, reaffirmed at our recent Policy Conference, remains clear: trans women are women, trans men are men, and our non-binary colleagues must have full legal recognition.