Rosa Mumford-Turner
The EHRC updated Code of Practice comes into effect today, a statement from your President Team
Following a 40-day scrutiny period in front of Parliament, the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s updated Code of Practice comes into effect today (Wednesday 5th August 2026). This means that the existing guidance will be revoked and replaced by the new Code of Practice as statutory guidance. This Code is a framework for operating within the law following the Supreme Court’s judgement in April last year.
The Students’ Union at UWE remains clear that we are firmly committed to the inclusion and safety of our trans+ community, everyone has the right to live and study freely, without fear or exclusion. We want to reassure our student community that student voice remains at the heart of decision-making and we are actively working with the Vice Chancellor to maintain this safety and inclusion.
What have we done so far?
Since the Ruling in April 2025, The Students’ Union has played an active role in advocating for our trans+ students and actively shaping the updated Trans Student Policy at UWE Bristol. We reviewed the draft, suggested more inclusive language, and proposed a clearer structure to ensure the policy communicates a strong message of safety and support.
We worked with our Trans Welfare and LGBT Officer to communicate changes to policy at the university, as well as breaking down EHRC guidance and consultation for students, we have always had the firm stance that this Code is not inclusive to our trans+ community, and as a service provider, it will also not work in practice.
Following our Presidents Team’s Statement on the EHRC Code of Practice on 22 May 2026, your President Team along with your BME Officer and LGBT Officer sent a letter to local MPs who represent UWE students, and the Equalities Ministers. We advertised useful resources that students can use to also write to their MPs. We got a response from Karin Smyth.
What are we doing now?
Inclusive Policy: Your Students’ Union Sabbatical Team are working hard to lobby for an inclusive, supportive and representative policy which has students at the heart and sits within the framework that the University is required to operate. We are actively reaching out to the LGBTQ+ Society to organise policy sessions to carefully consider the policy and identify any recommendations or amendments to its wording. We are working collaboratively with the University and our students.
Listening Exercises: Over the summer period, we are supporting the University to host a series of student listening exercises to hear perspectives from across the University. These will be followed with in-person listening sessions once the new term begins.
Online Reflection Form: 17 August – 21 October
Online Listening Session 1: 28 September, 12:00pm–1:00pm
Online Listening Session 2: 12 October, 1:00pm–2:00pm
In-Person Listening Session: 21 October, 12:00pm–1:00pm
Confidential 1:1 Listening Sessions: September–October
The University will also be hosting an open and anonymous online form throughout the summer, remaining live until September before the new academic year begins. This will be a space for those who wish to share their lived experiences and perspectives. Once live, this form will be linked here as well as advertised on our social media.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsafe, please remember you are not alone. Our Advice Centre, your Students’ Union elected leaders, including the LGBT+ Officer, are here to support you.