A significant controversy has erupted around Girlguiding, the UK’s largest organization dedicated to girls, following its alleged response to a recent Supreme Court decision.
On April 16th, the Supreme Court delivered a unanimous ruling clarifying that the terms “woman” and “sex” within the Equality Act 2010 refer specifically to “a biological woman and biological sex.” Despite this legal clarification, a whistleblower claims Girlguiding is instructing its volunteers to disregard the judgement.
According to James Esses, a campaigner and psychotherapist who shared information on X (formerly Twitter), Girlguiding’s internal guidance allegedly directs volunteers to permit boys identifying as girls to utilize female camping facilities – including restrooms – without informing parents. He characterized this approach as a “safeguarding nightmare,” stating:
“Volunteers have been instructed that, irrespective of the Supreme Court judgement, boys who identify as girls can use female camp rooms and toilets. Worse still, parents must not be told.”
Girlguiding has publicly responded to these allegations, asserting their commitment to inclusivity: “We are proud to be a trans-inclusive organisation. We will continue to monitor the current situation and await further guidance.”
The claims have ignited considerable backlash online, with numerous individuals criticizing Girlguiding for allegedly failing to adhere to the law.
Reactions & Concerns
- Baroness Arlene Foster expressed deep disappointment, stating, “I’m sorry to say that Girlguiding has completely lost its core values of instilling self esteem and confidence in girls and has thrown those concepts away to be edgy and ‘modern’.”
- Baroness Jacqueline Foster emphasized the need for compliance with legal mandates.
- For Women Scotland, the group which previously challenged Scottish legislation on gender identity, commented, “This is why none of us can stop.”
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of broader political and social discussions surrounding gender identity.
Political Response
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the Supreme Court ruling as providing “real clarity,” stating that a “woman is an adult female” and allowing for clearer guidance on related issues. I actually welcome the judgment because I think it gives real clarity
.
However, internal divisions within the Labour Party regarding implementation of the ruling have come to light through leaked WhatsApp messages suggesting some MPs may resist its full application.
Culture Minister Sir Chris Bryant and Home Office Minister Dame Angela Eagle were reportedly involved in discussions advocating for action following comments from Baroness Falkner, the head of the equality watchdog.
Downing Street confirmed that no disciplinary action will be taken against the ministers involved, with officials claiming they weren’t attempting to undermine the Supreme Court ruling.
LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall expressed concern over the ruling’s implications: “Stonewall shares the deep concern at the widespread implications for today’s ruling from the Supreme Court. It will be incredibly worrying for the trans community and all of us who support them.”
