UK Women’s Groups Bar Trans Members After Supreme Court Ruling

Some of the UK’s prominent women’s organizations have announced new membership policies, excluding trans women following a ruling by the UK Supreme Court. In an April 2025 decision, the court determined that the legal definition of “woman” under the Equality Act 2010 does not encompass trans women who possess gender recognition certificates (GRCs). This ruling has sparked significant backlash from activists and advocates, who argue it undermines the rights and protections afforded to trans individuals.

The Women’s Institute and Girlguiding have both confirmed they will no longer allow trans members in response to the court’s interpretation. In a statement, CEO Melissa Green of the Women’s Institute expressed regret over the decision, stating, “Incredibly sadly, we will have to restrict our membership on the basis of biological sex from April next year… But the message we really want to get across is that it remains our firm belief that transgender women are women.”

The Women’s Institute explained that after seeking legal advice, they concluded that the ruling necessitated this restriction. Green emphasized that the organization had welcomed transgender women for over 40 years and that this decision was made only because they felt they had no alternative.

Similarly, Girlguiding issued a joint statement announcing that trans girls and young women would no longer be able to join their ranks. The statement acknowledged the disappointment this decision would cause among community members, while assuring that adult helper roles remain open to all. This policy change followed a letter from a member’s mother threatening legal action against the organization, as reported by The Times.

The impact of these decisions has been profound, with various figures in the LGBTQ+ community expressing their discontent. Jude Guaitamacchi, founder of the Trans+ Solidarity Alliance, criticized the government for failing to clarify the ruling’s interpretation, stating, “Imagine being a group that has welcomed trans members for generations being told who you can and cannot associate with, regardless of the wishes of the group itself. It’s cruel and a failure of this government to protect human rights, including freedom of association.”

The decision from these organizations has also led to public resignations, including that of broadcaster Ashley James, who stepped down as an ambassador for Girlguiding in light of the changes. TransActual Chair Helen Belcher remarked that these organizations have been coerced into excluding trans individuals, asserting, “If these changes must be forced on organizations, then it’s clear this is the result of a handful of extremists imposing their views on groups which have been very happily trans-inclusive for many years, if not decades.”

The ruling and its consequences have raised critical questions about the future of trans rights and protections in the UK. Activists argue that the decision not only redefines the legal landscape for gender identity but also risks marginalizing trans people in various social and legal contexts.

As these developments unfold, the implications for community organizations and their commitment to inclusivity continue to be debated. The situation underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and advocacy regarding gender rights and protections in society.