UK Watchdog Rules Trans Women Should Not Use Women’s Toilets

United Kingsom, April 27, 2025

Britain’s Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has stated that transgender women should not be permitted to use women’s toilets, following a Supreme Court ruling that legally defines a woman based on biological sex at birth. 

The EHRC released interim guidance for businesses and organizations after the court’s decision, which clarified that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer strictly to biological sex. The ruling has been praised by gender-critical activists and the government as providing legal clarity, but transgender advocates fear it may lead to discrimination.  

According to the watchdog, trans women should not access women’s facilities in workplaces or public spaces such as shops and hospitals. The same applies to trans men using men’s toilets. However, the EHRC emphasized that transgender individuals should not be left without facilities, recommending unisex toilets as an alternative.  

Government minister Pat McFadden told the BBC that the ruling logically means people should use facilities matching their biological sex, though he noted there would be no enforcement of "toilet police."  

The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision stated that single-sex spaces—including changing rooms, shelters, and medical services—must be based on biological sex to function as intended. Additionally, schools must provide separate changing facilities for boys and girls over eight years old.  

The EHRC also advised that women-only or lesbian-only organizations, such as sports clubs, should exclude trans women. Further guidance on transgender participation in competitive sports is expected soon.  

Following the ruling, Prime Minister Keir Starmer shifted his stance, retracting his previous statement that “trans women are women.” 

Hicia, News