Gender identity inequality in Wales
Know your rights
Trans people often experience discrimination - some of this discrimination is unlawful and covered by equality legislation.
Trans (or Transgender) is an umbrella term used by people whose gender identity and/or gender expression differs from their birth sex. The term includes, but is not limited to, transsexual people and others who define as gender-variant.
It is unlawful to discriminate against workers because of gender reassignment. Employers should ensure they have policies in place which are designed to prevent discrimination in:
recruitment and selection
determining pay
training and development
selection for promotion
discipline and grievances
countering bullying and harassment
taking time off work.
Gender reassignment is a personal, social, and sometimes medical, process by which a person's gender presentation (the way they appear to others) is changed. Anyone who proposes to, starts or has completed a process to change his or her gender is protected from discrimination under the Equality Act. An individual does not need to be undergoing medical supervision to be protected. So, for example, a woman who decides to live as a man without undergoing any medical procedures would be covered.
It is discrimination to treat transsexual people less favourably for being absent from work because they propose to undergo, are undergoing or have undergone gender reassignment than they would be treated if they were absent because they were ill or injured, or if they were absent for some other reason.
The following are a list of good organisations in Wales who may be able to help you with more information or support:
- EHRC Wales report – Not just another statistic – qualitative trans research
- LGBT Excellence Centre Wales
- Trans Youth Wales
- Unique (North Wales trans organisation)
- Gender Trust
- Trans Youth (UK)
- GIRES
- The Gender Trust
- Depend (family, friend and partner support)
- Trans Kids (resources for primary school teachers)
- National Trans Police Association
- A:gender (Home office trans network)
- GRS Wales (campaign for the right to help with funding Gender Reassignment Surgery in Wales)
Diverse Cymru also offer you advice, support and training around this issue.
