BBC pauses training programmes on LGBTQ+ and trans inclusion after Supreme Court ruling
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The BBC has temporarily suspended two of its internal diversity training programmes focused on transgender and LGBTQ+ inclusion, following a landmark ruling by the UK Supreme Court that redefined the legal interpretation of "sex" under the Equality Act 2010.
The decision, handed down in April, concluded that the term "sex" in the Act refers strictly to biological sex assigned at birth, excluding self-identified gender - even for those holding a Gender Recognition Certificate. The ruling has sparked widespread concern among trans rights advocates, who warn it could lead to increased exclusion from single-sex spaces and services.
In response, the BBC has paused its LGBTQ+ Allies and Trans Insights workshops to ensure their content aligns with the legal interpretation. Two other inclusivity programmes - BBC and You and Inclusive Leadership - have been amended, with references to pronouns and gender self-identification removed.
A BBC spokesperson emphasised that the move is not a rollback of its commitment to inclusivity: “We are not rowing back on our inclusivity training – we have simply paused two of our courses while we await final guidance from the Government following the Supreme Court ruling. Once we have this, we’ll ensure our training and the language it uses are updated to meet any legal obligations.”
The broadcaster has also announced dedicated listening sessions for trans and non-binary staff, acknowledging the emotional toll of the ruling and reaffirming its commitment to fostering a safe and respectful workplace.
Trans advocates have expressed concern that the ruling - and subsequent institutional responses - risk marginalising trans people further. Victoria McCloud, the UK’s first trans judge, described the ruling as ushering in “a scary time” for trans individuals, warning of practical consequences such as fear of using public toilets.
