Southwark Joins Councils in standing up for trans and non-binary people as EHRC guidance takes force
Southwark Council – which is led by a Liberal Democrat-Green Joint Administration - has joined six London councils in writing to the Government setting out their position as the EHRC guidance comes into force today (4th August).
The letter explains that the councils in question will be acting to ensure that Trans+ people will continue to be protected, whilst also calling for the Labour Government to:
- Confirm that the EHRC Code of Practice cannot be interpreted to exclude Trans+ people from services and must be used to create inclusive services;
- Introduce legislation which protects the rights of Trans+ people, ensuring that they are able to participate fully in public life and access services safely, with privacy, and with dignity;
- Create an equalities framework that protects trans people’s safety, dignity and humanity.
Commenting, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of Southwark Council Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:
“Southwark has an unwavering commitment to standing with our Trans+ residents and ensuring they can live their lives safely, openly and with dignity.
The Labour Government cannot claim to champion equality while allowing guidance that risks pushing trans people out of public life and creating confusion for public services.
We're proud to have joined with councils across London to call for urgent action.
Trans people deserve clarity, legal protection and the certainty that they will be treated with the respect and humanity every person deserves.
We will always stand alongside our Trans+ communities and continue pressing Andy Burnham’s Government to do the same.”