Trans, nonbinary, intersex, and gender non-conforming students and staff are valued members of our University community and have the right to feel safe here. We are aware that the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s proposed code of practice has a significant impact on these students and staff in our community, and recognise the distress and uncertainty surrounding this ruling.

We want to reassure you that we will work together to address this, and navigate a way forward together that ensures everyone continues to feel they belong at the University of Bath. We – the University and SU – remain jointly responsible for the safety, dignity and respect of gender diverse students and staff who study and work here.

The University and The SU are now beginning consultation processes engaging with students, staff, and other stakeholders such as the Trade Unions. As part of the University consultation process, there will be a full review of the current Gender Identity policy and related policies, and we will be working with different departments in the University (including the legal team and Campus Infrastructure) to create immediate, intermediate and long-term plans. Any plans made will uphold the Equality Act 2010, which includes gender reassignment as a protected characteristic.

Following analysis of the results from these consultations, Dr Catherine Butler (Institutional Lead for LGBTQ+ Inclusion) and the newly appointed LGBTQ+ University Self-Assessment Team will work with internal departments and The SU to implement the changes. This will ensure any changes are made in a way that is supportive of staff and students at the University. We will regularly consult on and communicate any changes, ensuring stakeholders are fully informed.

If you are a student affected by these issues, please get in touch with Student Support and Safeguarding who provide LGBTQ+ specific support. Peer support is also offered by The SU LGBTQ+ group.

If you are a staff member affected by these issues, please reach out to Health Assured who have staff trained in LGBTQ+ issues. Peer support is also offered by Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Staff and PGR group.

This statement was written in consultation with the University’s legal advisor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Marcus Munafò, The SU and its LGBTQ+ group, the Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Staff and PGR group, and the UCU, UNISON, and Unite Trade Unions.