Full Breakdown
UK Government to Release New Guidance on Single-Sex Spaces
4/14/2026, 9:58:27 PM
Upcoming Guidance Following Elections
The UK government, led by Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson, is set to publish new guidance on single-sex spaces in June 2026, following local and national elections on May 7. The updated draft guidance was submitted by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) but cannot be formally announced until after the elections due to strict pre-election rules. The EHRC's Code of Practice, which offers guidance on the application of equalities law, is being revised in light of a Supreme Court ruling that defined the terms "woman," "man," and "sex" based on biological sex under the Equality Act.
Context of the Guidance Revision
The revisions to the EHRC's guidance are a direct response to the Supreme Court's ruling in the case of For Women Scotland, which clarified that the definitions of sex in equality law pertain to biological characteristics. Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, Chair of the EHRC, indicated that the amendments aim to enhance understanding among duty bearers regarding the law's application in various scenarios. This update is intended to ensure that all service users are treated with dignity and respect, consistent with the Equality Act.
Perspectives on the Guidance Delay
The delay in publishing the new guidance has drawn mixed reactions from advocacy groups. Alex Parmar-Yee from the Trans+ Solidarity Alliance expressed approval of the amended draft, stating that the previous version was "unworkable" and emphasized the need for trans-inclusive provisions in line with international human rights standards. Conversely, Maya Forstater, CEO of the sex-based rights charity Sex Matters, criticized the prolonged timeline, arguing that the delay has been detrimental to women. She pointed out that it has been a year since the Supreme Court's judgment and seven months since the EHRC submitted its initial Code of Practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Bridget Phillipson stated that the government supports the establishment of single-sex spaces based on biological sex and highlighted that protections for transgender individuals are also included within the Equality Act. The government plans to lay the final guidance before Parliament for a period of 40 days, after which it will become statutory unless rejected by either the House of Commons or the House of Lords.
What's Next
Once the new guidance is approved, it will be presented to Parliament, marking a significant step in clarifying the application of equalities law in the UK. The outcome of the upcoming elections may also influence the final form of the guidance and its reception among various stakeholders.
