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Supreme Court Ruling Support

In April 2025, the UK Supreme Court issued a ruling regarding the definition of the terms ‘woman’, ‘man’ and ‘sex’ for the purposes of the 2010 Equality Act, while also confirming the legal protections for transgender people in respect of discrimination and harassment. 

This ruling has raised a lot of important questions, and we understand the impact this may have had on many members of our community. We want to reassure our Trans and Non-Binary students that JMSU remains committed to ensuring that every member of our community feels they belong and are always treated with dignity and respect. 

About the Supreme Court Ruling

Whilst the UK government has accepted the ruling and the Equality and Human Rights Commission has issued an interim update on the practical implications, is expected that further statutory and non-statutory guidance, and a code of practice, will follow. 

At JMSU, we’re taking time to understand what this means for us, and how it could impact our policies, services, and spaces. Whilst we do not yet have all the answers, we are committed to keeping you informed and supported each step of the way.  

First and foremost: you matter.

Your safety, dignity, wellbeing, and right to inclusion are our top priorities. We know this news may be worrying or confusing, and we’re here for you.

Statement of Values

As a Students’ Union, we always work within the law, and we’ll continue to do so. But just as importantly, we’ll keep standing up for equity, respect, and inclusion—for every student.

What Are We Doing Now (July 2025)?

On 20th May 2025, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) launched a consultation on its updated Code of Practice relating to the Equality Act 2010. The consultation closed on 30th June 2025. 

In response to the recent Supreme Court ruling, over 50 students’ unions across the UK have come together to defend the rights of trans and non-binary students by submitting coordinated responses to the EHRC consultation. 

We’re proud to share that JMSU is one of them. Our submission, developed in line with NUS guidance, outlines key concerns affecting our students and the broader student experience. It focuses on several critical areas, including: 

  • Gender Recognition Certificates 

  • Recording and defining sex at birth 

  • Updated definitions of sexual orientation 

  • Women-only associations 

  • Competitive sport 

  • Single-sex services 

We’re staying ahead of the curve and making sure we remain inclusive as guidance develops. Over the coming months, JMSU will be: 

  • Reviewing our policies to ensure inclusivity while maintaining legal compliance 

  • Delivering staff briefings on the implications of the revised guidance 

  • Providing guidance to student groups, so they feel confident about what the current legislation means for their activities. 

  • Liaising regularly with LJMU Diversity and Inclusion Team to ensure that any changes remain inclusive and meet the diverse needs of our student community. 

  • Continue to work with NUS and other SUs in the movement to protect the rights of Trans and non-binary students. 

Our priority remains ensuring every student can feel safe, supported, and included at JMSU. 

LJMU's Response to the Supreme Court Ruling

LJMU has released a statement on the UK Supreme Court Ruling.

We're working together to stay informed and supportive of all students.

How to Get Involved and Share Your Views 

We believe that students should feel free to ask questions and build on their knowledge regarding current world affairs, therefore we encourage students to contact us: studentvoice@ljmu.ac.uk if they have any concerns or questions.  

Some of our student and staff community attended a Trans Rights Action Day on 8th May at Manchester SU – you can find more details about joining NUS’s Trans Rights Action here. 

You can also donate to Good Law Project, a legal fund to challenge the Supreme Court Ruling. 

Useful Information & Resources 

If you want to understand more about the impact of this ruling, there are some informative resources below: 

Where to Find Support Within LJMU 

External Support Services 

Discrimination and Harassment

  • As a membership organisation we represent a diverse range of students who we celebrate and learn from. We have zero tolerance towards discrimination and hate crime. We will continue to inform community members and student leaders, and ensure educational resources are accessible.

  • We will continue to work alongside LJMU to ensure reporting mechanisms are fit for purpose and responsive. There are multiple services available to students to report and support those who are, or have, experienced discrimination of any kind.

Meet Your Campus Police Officer 

External Support Services 

  • Students have long been drivers of social change.

  • If you’re planning to protest, stay informed on your rights and how to stay safe.

  • Learn more here: What to Know About Protesting