On 16 April 2025, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the words woman and sex in the Equality Act refer to biological woman and biological sex. It also confirmed that transgender people are still protected under the law through the characteristic of gender reassignment.

We recognise this decision may have implications for how leisure facilities operate, particularly around access to single-sex spaces and the development of inclusion policies.

At Right Directions, we are currently reviewing our guidance to ensure it aligns with the recent ruling and any upcoming updates from regulatory bodies. As a result, we have made temporary revisions to our Access Control and Admissions Procedure, which is now available on Right Place for clients using our QMS. Additionally, we have temporarily removed the section on transgender individuals from the Equal Opportunities for Customers procedure and have removed the RD-Doc – Trans Customers document from Right Place. These changes are in place pending further guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

The EHRC has indicated that new guidance, based on the Supreme Court ruling, will be issued in June 2025. Following its release, we will conduct a thorough review of our procedures and guidance to ensure they are fully aligned with the new guidance and adhere to industry best practices.

In the meantime, we advise leisure facility operators to manage situations on an individual basis, showing sensitivity and understanding to ensure that all customers are treated with dignity and respect.

The EHRC’s interim update provides further information until full guidance is available: EHRC Supreme Court Judgement

We’re here to support you – please get in touch with any questions.