Information for staff and students following the UK Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act
The recent UK Supreme Court judgment on the legal definition of "woman", "man" and "sex" under the Equality Act 2010 has attracted wide attention and will take some time to absorb fully. Its practical implications for the higher education sector remain uncertain, and we expect further clarification in due course – particularly through an updated Code of Practice from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
We recognise that this development may prompt a range of reactions across our community, and for some it may bring a sense of uncertainty, concern or anxiety. We want to reassure you that Surrey is and will remain an inclusive, safe, and welcoming community where anyone can belong.
It's also important to note that, under the Equality Act 2010, transgender people continue to be protected from discrimination on the basis of gender reassignment.
We also remain committed to upholding the right of our community to engage in debate and to exercise academic freedom – as enshrined in our recently-updated Royal Charter. These rights sit alongside our commitments to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to the fair treatment of everyone in our community.
Ensuring colleagues and students can access support
Inclusion is one of our core values, and kindness and zero tolerance for bullying or harassment in any form are our guiding principles.
If you experience or witness any inappropriate behaviour, you should report it, confident in the knowledge that all reports will be taken seriously.
- Staff can access further support and resources.
- Students can access further support and resources.
If you are aware of any staff or students who have any worries they wish to discuss in the context of this matter, please encourage students to talk to their personal tutor, and staff to raise them with their line managers and/or HR Business Partner.