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Gender Reassignment

Gender Reassignment is one of the protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. The definition of gender reassignment has been extended to cover people who have proposed, started or completed a process to change their sex but are not under medical supervision. (Equality Challenge Unit - Key Actions 2010).

For a summary of the key legislation see the Equality Challenge Unit guidance: Gender Identity: key legislation.

The University of York's work on equality in relation to gender re-assignment:

Gender Equality Scheme: The University's Gender Equality Scheme sets out how the University works towards achieving equality and fairness for the transgender members of its community. It includes an Action Plan for 2010-2013 and data relating to staff and students.

Policies: The University's Equality and Diversity Policy for Students and Equality and Diversity in Employment Policy set out the University's committment to ensuring that everyone studying and working at the University is treated fairly and with dignity and respect.

LGBTI Matters: The staff Sexual Diversity and Equality Forum, launched in 2008 provides an opportunity for staff interested in equality in relation to trans and gender identity issues to engage in consultation with the University and for networking and support opportunities. The forum arranged for a speaker from GenderShift to talk about trans awareness at its meeting in March 2009. This was a well-attended session open to all staff interested in equality in relation to trans issues.

Understanding the views of Staff: The Staff Survey 2011 requested information in relation to gender reassignment - a new development for the University. Whilst the analysis indicates that there were a very small number of respondents whose present gender is not the same as that assigned at birth, this represents an important step in consultation. The results in terms of engagement, harassment and perceived discrimination was communicated to members of the LGBTI Matters forum at the meeting in March 2012. The University is working towards gaining a better understanding of the views of its trans staff, and plans to use the results of the survey and further consultation to inform future action.

Understanding the views of Students: The University is committed to ensuring that its trans students are treated fairly. Building on previous consultation with student representatives, work will continue in terms of identifying key issues faced by trans students at the University, and implementing appropriate action.

What can I do to help promote equality?

• Publicise the Staff Forum LGBTI Matters.
• Understand and adhere to the University’s Equality Policies
• Read the Equality Challenge Unit's updated guidance on supporting trans staff and students
• Read about the work on transgender equality being done by the Equality and Human Rights Commission
• Ensure that all staff and students in your department are aware of the Equality Act 2010 and the University's Gender Equality Scheme
• Speak out and challenge discrimination positively
• Help to eliminate harassment and report it immediately
• Play your part in promoting a culture of respect and tolerance
• Contact the Equality and Diversity Office to arrange for the Equality and Diversity Roadshow to be displayed in your department.

 

Last updated by the Equality and Diversity Adviser

May 2012

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