New Rules on Single Sex Spaces
UK equality guidance now states that toilets and changing rooms must be used according to biological sex. The updated code says a trans woman, who is a biological male, should not use women only facilities such as female toilets or changing rooms.
Instead, organisations are encouraged to provide separate options such as gender neutral spaces to avoid exclusion.
Legal Background and Supreme Court Ruling
The guidance follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that defines a woman under equality law as based on biological sex. This decision shaped how public spaces must organise facilities under the Equality Act.
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission produced the code and ministers have approved it. It will become legally binding if Parliament raises no objections within 40 days.
What Businesses and Services Must Do
The code applies to places like gyms, hospitals, shopping centres, restaurants, and public venues.
It explains that organisations should not leave transgender people without access to any facility. That could be considered unfair or discriminatory.
Instead, services are expected to offer practical alternatives. These may include:
• Separate gender neutral toilets or changing rooms
• Self contained private cubicles with secure doors and walls
• Use of existing accessible toilets where appropriate
Officials also said that venues with only male and female toilets could convert them into unisex spaces if needed.
Government Response
Women and Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson said the aim is to support clear rules while protecting people from discrimination and harassment.
She said organisations need practical guidance so they can follow the law properly.
Publication and Next Steps
The full guidance is more than 300 pages long and was first submitted to the government in September 2025. It is now before Parliament for review before it becomes final law.
