We are disappointed to see further delays to the announcement of plans to reform the Gender Recognition Act (GRA), as the Government now plans to publish their response ‘over the summer’. We hope this further delay allows the Government time it needs to ensure that any reform makes life fairer and more equal for trans and non-binary people, including the right to self-identify, legal recognition for non-binary people, and inclusion for young trans people.

We are pleased to hear the Minister for Women and Equalities Liz Truss confirm in parliament today that the government will “not be rolling back the rights of trans people.” We are also encouraged to see the Minister acknowledges that it’s important that trans people are able to live their lives without fear. Many trans and non-binary people live in a constant state of fear, unable to live their lives in safety and with dignity. We look forward to hearing how the Government plans to address this.

Our recent research into the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on LGBT communities revealed that 17% of trans and non-binary people do not feel safe where they are currently staying, that 1 in 5 trans people are in need of financial support, and 1 in 4 have experienced homelessness. Transphobia continues to rise, as hate crimes increase year on year. This also reflected in the numbers who turn to us for support, with calls to our crisis helpline about transphobia doubling in recent months. These are real people, who urgently need our Government to ensure they are able to live their life without fear.

Paul Martin OBE, Chief Executive of LGBT Foundation, says:

“The rights of trans and non-binary people are non-negotiable, and we will continue to fight for a better and more accepting world for trans and non-binary communities.

To all trans and non-binary people I want you to know that we love you, we’re here for you and we’ll be standing in your corner alongside you. To our friends and allies, I would encourage you to consider every morning what you can do to make this a better and safer world for trans and non-binary people.”

We are, of course, willing to work with the Minister and the Government to ensure a safer and more dignified future for trans and non-binary communities. It is essential that we continue to move forward and not backward on achieving equality for all LGBT people. Reforming the GRA is a key step towards building a society where trans and non-binary people are accepted and welcomed.

LGBT Foundation is here if you need us. If you would like to speak to someone, our helpline is open 9am-9pm on weekdays and 10am-6pm on weekends. You can call us on 0345 3 30 30 30 or email [email protected].