24 April 2025
Last week, the UK Supreme Court ruled that, for certain provisions of the Equality Act 2010, the term “sex” refers to biological sex. This clarification has prompted concern and raised important questions, particularly for our trans, non-binary, and wider LGBTQIA+ members and service users.
We understand the emotion and uncertainty this decision may bring. At the RCSLT, we have taken time to carefully consider the implications of this ruling. We have sought professional advice to ensure our response offers clarity and reassurance. We are also actively engaging with member groups to better understand their perspectives and ensure their voices inform our next steps.
Understanding the ruling
While the ruling defines “sex” in certain parts of the Equality Act as biological, it does not remove existing legal protections for trans people under other parts of the Act or under the Gender Recognition Act. Trans individuals remain protected from discrimination — and inclusion continues to be both a legal and professional responsibility.
This ruling does not change who we are.
RCSLT is — and will remain — a professional community that welcomes, supports, and values every member and service user. We are committed to being an inclusive, respectful, and safe space for all. We affirm the rights, dignity, and equality of trans and non-binary people, and we will continue to champion these values throughout our profession.
We are undertaking a review of our professional guidance to ensure it remains relevant and robust in light of the court’s decision. Members will be kept informed of any updates through our eNewsletter and other communication channels.
The role of SLTs in trans-inclusive practice
Speech and language therapists play a critical role in gender-affirming care, particularly in voice and communication therapy for trans and non-binary individuals. These services support people to express their identity safely, confidently, and authentically — and they must be accessible, respectful, and free from discrimination.
We stand with trans and non-binary service users and members whose lived experiences enriches our profession. We are committed to supporting their wellbeing, career development, and right to safe and inclusive workplaces.
Inclusion means everyone
We recognise that conversations about rights and inclusion can feel difficult. Inclusion is not about choosing between groups — it’s about creating a community where everyone can thrive. Our support for trans inclusion remains strong as does our commitment to women’s rights, including those of women from marginalised communities who face significant barriers in healthcare, education, and employment.
We recognise that trans people also often face discrimination, barriers to healthcare and social exclusion. These can intersect with other aspects of their identity — such as race, disability, and socioeconomic status — creating deeper inequalities. We are committed to addressing these intersecting experiences in all we do.
Our vision is of a profession where nobody is excluded or silenced.
Further information and support
We are proud to have collaborated with the UK SLT Pride Network to produce ‘Supporting LGBTQIA+ Colleagues in the Workplace: A Guide for All’, designed to promote awareness, understanding, and allyship.
Our new Equity, Diversity and Belonging Vision and Strategy sets out our vision for a profession where every practitioner and community feels seen, valued, and included — and where equitable care is available to all.
If you, or someone you know, is affected by hate crime, please seek support through your local services. These issues can be deeply distressing, and we urge all members to take care of themselves and each other, acting always with kindness and professionalism.
As SLT HCPC registrants, we all share a responsibility to uphold the standards of conduct and ethics that guide our profession — including appropriate behaviour online. Any concerns about conduct should be directed to the HCPC, and members are reminded to follow their employer’s policies and codes of practice.
