At BCUSU, we understand that last month’s UK Supreme Court ruling on the legal definition of a woman has had a profound impact on trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people. 

We express our full support and solidarity with the trans community. We recognise that some BCU students, as well as their friends and families, may be directly impacted by having their identities or rights challenged.  

We acknowledge how distressing and unsettling this ruling is and we stand firmly with our community during this time. We want to reassure students that support services are available if you need help.  

What happens next? 

Universities across the UK are still awaiting government guidance after the Supreme Court ruling and the potential impact it could have on services and facilities. 

Your Vice President Equity & Inclusion, Oluwadamilola Iyanda, has already met with key staff at BCU including Professor Marcia Wilson, Pro-Vice Chancellor Education; Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Chair of the LGBT+ Staff Network; and more, ensuring BCUSU is part of any conversations that could impact students. 

The University and BCUSU will continue working together to review relevant policies and equality impact assessments, as we await guidance on the practical implications of the ruling. 

BCUSU listening groups 

We want to hear from trans people, and the wider LGBTQ+ community, at BCU. Our listening groups are being set-up to get your perspective on how the Supreme Court decision impacts you, and how other issues affect you at university. 

If you feel isolated or marginalised since the decision or are concerned how it impacts people in your community, please join our group to ensure that your views are heard, understood and considered when we speak with the University.   

To be part of our listening group, or to share your feedback, sign-up below. 

Join our listening group

Support at university:  

• BCU Mental Health & Wellbeing Team – book an appointment online or in person 

• LGBTQIA+ Chaplain – BCU’s Faith & Spirituality Team have several Chaplains who you can speak to for support or about any concerns 

• BCUSU LGBTQ+ Society – a student-led group that host socials, provide a safe space to meet other people, and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ rights and issues.  

Local and national support:  

• Birmingham LGBT Centre - local community service for LGBTQ+ people 

• Trans Central - Birmingham LGBT Centre’s Transgender community support group  

• Switchboard LGBT - national LGBTQIA+ support line for anything related to sexuality and gender identity 

• Transactual - Trans-led and run organisation focussed on advocating, educating and empowering trans adults 

• Mermaids - supporting for trans, non-binary and gender-questioning children and young people 

Join NUS Trans Right campaign 

NUS will focus on lobbying nationally, with the aim to increase active allyship for trans+ people among youth & students, the Higher Education sector and within Parliament.   

NUS campaign: find out more