Recent legal developments in the UK have clarified the definition of "sex" under the Equality Act 2010, following a Supreme Court ruling. This has implications for the way facilities and certain policies are managed in organisations such as ours.

Following independent legal advice, we have now established a Transgender Policy for Mendip Spring Golf Club, which aligns with the latest legal requirements and interim guidance issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

You can view the full policy below.

Please note: this is a complex and evolving area, and the policy will be reviewed and updated regularly as further guidance is released.

Gender, Facilities & Legal Compliance Policy (UK)   Effective Date: 1st May 2025         Review Date: 1st June 2025

Purpose

This policy is designed to ensure Mendip Spring Golf Club provides a safe, respectful, and legally compliant environment for all members, visitors, and staff in light of current UK law and the interim guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) following the 2024 Supreme Court judgment.

Policy Statement

We are committed to promoting equality, dignity, and inclusion for all individuals, including transgender people. We also recognise our obligations under the Equality Act 2010, which, per the Supreme Court ruling, interprets "sex" as biological sex for the purposes of certain legal protections and facility provisions.

Changing, Toilet, and Washing Facilities - In line with the EHRC interim guidance:

Single-sex toilets and changing room area will be provided for males and females based on biological sex, as required by law.

Transgender individuals will not be permitted to use the single-sex facilities of their acquired gender. For example:

• A transgender woman may not use the women’s toilets or changing rooms.
• A transgender man may not use the men’s toilets or changing rooms.

Alternative facilities will be made available where possible:

• Unisex or mixed-sex facilities (such as individual, lockable toilets or changing rooms) may be provided as inclusive options for any person, regardless of gender identity.
• Where feasible, private changing space will be offered upon request.

Lockable self-contained facilities are considered suitable for use by all genders.

Sports and Competitions - In line with national sporting body guidance and the Golf Club’s duty under the Equality Act:

Eligibility for gender-specific tournaments, leagues, or competitions will be determined by biological sex, unless competition-specific guidance from the relevant governing body (e.g. England Golf, The R&A) dictates otherwise.

We will work with governing bodies to ensure compliance and fair play in all competitive environments.

Respect and Inclusion

All individuals must be treated with respect and courtesy, regardless of gender identity.

Bullying, harassment, or discrimination on the basis of gender identity or gender reassignment will not be tolerated and will be dealt with under the Club’s disciplinary procedures.

Staff and volunteers are encouraged to use preferred names and pronouns in social and informal settings, where appropriate.

Staff Facilities and Employment

Staff toilets and changing rooms will follow the same principles: separate single-sex facilities by biological sex, with provision made for individual or gender-neutral use where feasible.

Transgender staff will be supported in line with this policy and their rights under employment law.

Policy Implementation

This policy will be shared with all staff, members, and visitors.

Training will be provided for staff and volunteers to understand the legal context and inclusive practices.

The Club will continue to monitor developments in guidance from the EHRC and relevant authorities, and this policy will be updated accordingly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we ensure our club remains a respectful, inclusive, and lawfully compliant environment for all.

Scott Thompson - General Manager