The recent Supreme Court ruling has undoubtedly had a profound effect on many individuals and communities. Since the announcement of this decision many of our members have shared their feelings of uncertainty, distress and concern for the future.

The public and political narrative about the effect of the ruling presents a ‘biological woman’ vs ‘trans woman’ issue. The health sector is limited in resources but access to care should not be determined by a perceived hierarchy of rights. The ruling will not change the problem of lack of available facilities in the NHS and may put more pressure on services to find alternative accommodations for trans patients who could not be accommodated safely or with privacy in accommodations which align with their birth sex.

The reality is that greater resources are needed for the NHS to guarantee the privacy and dignity of every patient. At the practical level we support informed, respectful discussion by medical professionals of the best ways to manage individual patients, taking a patient-centred approach, which respects their dignity, autonomy, and human rights.

In 2022, a BMA report in collaboration with GLADD revealed that almost half (49%) of trans respondents working in the NHS had directly suffered from transphobia at least once in the past two years and almost a quarter (24%) had experienced verbal attacks or name calling. It is imperative any amendments to NHS and EHRC guidelines and policies reflect this harsh reality and actively incorporate the voices of trans staff and trans patients, with explicit consideration of how they will have dignified access and experiences of the healthcare environment.

Our commitment to supporting our trans and non-binary members, and the wider community of medical professionals and patients remains unwavering. For trans and non-binary doctors and medical students, it is important they continue to feel they can train and work in inclusive environments, free from hate and discrimination.

If you are experiencing any form of discrimination, harassment, or emotional distress because of the recent Supreme Court ruling, please know the BMA is here for you (see below for how to contact us).

To support you better, we would like to hear from doctors and medical students who have been impacted by the Supreme Court ruling – please contact us at [email protected]

Together, we can uphold the principles of justice, equality and compassion.

Resources for doctors and medical students in the UK

We aim to listen and engage with members who raise concerns with us. If you face discrimination or harassment at work, the BMA can provide support in the workplace – you can contact us or email directly at [email protected]

The BMA has a free 24-hour wellbeing service, available to all doctors and medical students and their dependants in the UK. You do not have to be a member of the BMA to access this service.