Anti-trans activist Sharron Davies suspended as patron of homelessness charity

Anti-trans activist Sharron Davies has been suspended as a patron of Plymouth-based homelessness charity Shekinah after posting comments on social media that appeared to criticise the UK Government’s decision to repeal the Vagrancy Act of 1824.

On 11 June, Davies tweeted a picture of tents lining a street, presumably in San Francisco, along with the words: “Decriminalising rough sleeping IS a huge mistake. This is part of San Francisco where I went to uni for while in the 80s, once so beautiful, there are parts now that are dangerous & no-go areas. Coming to cities near you soon. How in anyone's crazy imagination will this help?”

Davies has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has frequently spoken out about the inclusion of trans women in female sports categories, citing concerns over fairness and biological differences.

The Government’s decision to repeal the Vagrancy Act, which was originally enacted in 1824 to address homelessness following the Napoleonic Wars and the Industrial Revolution, was announced on 10 June, with plans to remove the legislation by spring next year.

Matt Downie, CEO of national homelessness charity Crisis, called the repeal “a landmark moment that will change lives.” Emma Haddad, CEO of St Mungo’s, added that the repeal “cannot come soon enough.”

In response to Davies’ tweet, Shekinah CEO John Hamblin issued a statement:
“Shekinah has for over 30 years been supporting people experiencing street homelessness and fighting to end the injustice of rough sleeping. We applauded and welcomed the news that the outdated and draconian Vagrancy Act is to be repealed. Criminalising people sleeping on the streets often pushes people into further exclusion and does little to address the underlying issues.”

Hamblin confirmed that the charity had suspended its connection with Davies and would seek to discuss the matter with her directly.