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UK Confirms Code Banning Men from Female Changing Rooms

5/23/2026

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Summary

Chapman Condemns Code

The Equality and Human Rights Commission's Code, which bans men from female changing rooms, was confirmed by the UK Government.
Maggie Chapman, Scottish Greens MSP, condemned the Code as deeply troubling, authoritarian and cruel.
She said the guidance rolls back fundamental rights of marginalized people and will affect trans individuals, businesses and workplaces.
Chapman noted trans people already face prejudice, which the Code could exacerbate.

Summary

Scotland Restricts Access

The revised code lets gyms, leisure centres and hospitals restrict services based on biological sex.
The 342-page guidance requires signs and website notices for single-sex services and proof of eligibility only when clear evidence shows a man is trying to enter a female-only area.
The code now covers all public entities, which has led to accusations that Scottish companies and bodies delayed updates despite warnings they were breaching the law.

Summary

For Women Scotland Hails

For Women Scotland hailed Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance as a milestone for women’s rights, saying it ends excuses and delays in applying Supreme Court ruling that obliges bodies to protect women.
For Women Scotland said its court case forced EHRC to revise guidance and remove ambiguities.
The organization warned demonising trans people mirrors past homophobic rhetoric and bodies now have no reason to evade duties to women.

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Chapman Condemns Code

The Equality and Human Rights Commission's Code, which bans men from female changing rooms, was confirmed by the UK Government.
Maggie Chapman, Scottish Greens MSP, condemned the Code as deeply troubling, authoritarian and cruel.
She said the guidance rolls back fundamental rights of marginalized people and will affect trans individuals, businesses and workplaces.
Chapman noted trans people already face prejudice, which the Code could exacerbate.

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