‘Cruel and Nonsensical’: Shirley Manson condemns Girlguiding decision to ban trans girls from joining youth groups

Scottish musician Shirley Manson has publicly criticised Girlguiding’s recent decision to ban trans girls from joining its youth groups, describing the move as “cruel” and “nonsensical”. The Garbage frontwoman made the remarks during an emotionally charged performance at the Royal Albert Hall, where the band headlined a Teenage Cancer Trust concert.

Manson used the high‑profile charity gig not only to debut a tribute cover of The Cure’s Lovesong but also to address broader social issues. As part of her on‑stage commentary, she took aim at the updated Girlguiding policy, which bars trans girls from membership across all sections including Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers.

The ban, announced in December 2025, followed legal advice and has been met with significant public backlash, with LGBTQ+ groups and former members warning that the decision risks harming vulnerable young people who previously relied on the organisation for community and support. 

Speaking to the audience, Manson criticised the rollback of inclusion within one of the UK’s most recognisable youth organisations and challenged the gendered assumptions underpinning the policy. Her remarks came amid wider concerns raised by critics who argue that the ban reverses years of progress on trans inclusion and lacks evidence to justify its introduction. They note that Girlguiding had previously maintained that being transgender posed no safeguarding risk and had defended its inclusive policies as recently as 2018.