Women’s Aid responds to Conservative Party plans to change the definition of sex in the Equality Act

Farah Nazeer, chief executive of Women’s Aid:  

‘Domestic abuse affects countless women and children, and any decisions that could impact survivors should be made in consultation with specialist domestic abuse services, such as our members, who provide life-saving, frontline support. These services have previously highlighted that there is a lack of clarity in the law and guidance in this area, and a lack of understanding of these complexities amongst those who commission domestic abuse services. We are concerned about the implications of any policy change in this complex area without a necessary consultation, and are particularly alert to the potential that ‘opening up’ the Equality Act would have on the rights and freedoms of all groups experiencing inequality – which underpins domestic abuse. If any legislative reform is pursued in this area, the voices of survivors and specialist domestic abuse services must be an essential part of the conversation. We urge all parties not to weaponise concerns on this issue for political advantage. The safety and dignity of all groups – women and children experiencing male violence, and trans communities – must be upheld.’