Women’s Aid welcomes imminent Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance on the impact of Supreme Court ruling on sex definition

Nikki Bradley, Director of Delivery at Women’s Aid, comments:

“Following the Supreme Court ruling around the definition of ‘sex’ in the Equality Act, Women’s Aid issued initial guidance to all members to support them with their understanding of the decision and its implications for the vital work that they do. Since then, we have been working extensively with our legal team and experts within the sector to continue supporting member services and to develop robust guidance in this area which is legally compliant and responds to questions our members have posed.

We welcome the news that the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is soon to publish its amended Code of Practice following the complex judgements made in courts and a period of discussion, leading to consequent changes and amendments. This should help organisations who are busy on the frontline saving lives, and who often do not have their own legal teams, stay within the law whilst continuing their important work to support survivors of domestic abuse. We will also share updated guidance with our network, to ensure that our members feel confident about their legal obligations. As with the initial guidelines we issued to members following the Supreme Court ruling, the updated documents will be sent directly to them and not shared publicly.

As independent organisations, our members are responsible for setting their own charitable objectives and fundraising to ensure their vital services are sustainable.  As a membership organisation, we strive to support our members with guidance on key issues and work with the government on national policy issues, including availability of funding for the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector. We recognise the diversity and autonomy of our membership and their expertise and extensive knowledge of the needs of survivors in their locality.”