Announcements
Published: 21 May 2026 by Matthew Belfield
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has now released the Code of Practice for service providers covering single-sex services and facilities. It does not provide guidance for employers, though they, too, must work to prevent discrimination.
The guidance has significant implications for LGBTQ+ people, and we recognise that many people have been waiting a long time for this Code of Practice to be released.
We pride ourselves on providing outstanding services for our communities. The reality is, to do this, like many organisations working for the betterment of trans and non-binary people, we need time to fully understand the legal, social and practical implications. There are complex and often grey areas within this guidance that require careful interpretation. It is essential that organisations take the time to truly understand these fully, so that responses are accurate, lawful, and do not contribute to misinformation or harmful misunderstandings.
The Code of Practice arrives at a time when LGBTQ+ communities are already facing significant barriers to accessing safe, inclusive services. As a national charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ people, we are concerned that misinterpretation or rash implementation of the Code will compound community fear, erode trust in public services, and widen inequalities. We urge organisations affected to consult affected groups and seek expert support to help prevent discrimination.
Everyone deserves dignity, privacy, safety, and equitable access to essential services.
If you are LGBTQ+ and this situation is affecting you, we are here for you:
Support from LGBT Foundation
LGBT Foundation helpline:
0345 3 30 30 30
(9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday)
[email protected]
https://lgbt.foundation/contact-support/
Switchboard:
0800 0119 100
(open 10 am to 10 pm daily)
Gendered Intelligence:
Phone: 0800 640 8046
(opening hours are Mon – Fri)
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: 07592 650 496
Galop helpline for LGBT+ people experiencing abuse or violence:
Phone: 0800 999 5428
(opening hours are Mon – Fri)
Email: mailto:[email protected]
