Resources for Public Authorities
Remote Learning
With funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government, GIRES is developing an e-learning resource on transgender issues that is primarily intended for use by local authorities. However, users from many other sectors are finding it valuable too.
Because the initial feedback from users is highly positive, we are encouraging its use in the present form. In the coming weeks we will develop a second edition which will include many of the good ideas we have received for enhancing it. If you have any suggestions that you feel would increase the value of the resource, please
Monitoring Gender Nonconformity
Public authorities in England, and those contracted to provide services on their behalf, are required to undertake the specific duties that arise from the Equality Act (2010). These include publishing relevant information about employees and service users who are protected by the gender reassignment characteristic. To help with this, GIRES has published a quick guide that updates and summarises the more extensive GIRES guidance on meeting these obligations.
EHRC Study
Findings of a study undertaken for EHRC, available from their website based on an analysis of 36 telephone interviews with, and 60 online survey responses from, a cross-section of English, Scottish and Welsh public bodies. The participants represent a snapshot of a variety of public bodies from a range of sectors and geographical areas, rather than a scientifically chosen, statistically representative sample. In order to identify good practice examples, public bodies were also targeted who were known to have taken an interest in transgender work.
The phone interviews and online survey responses confirm that there is considerable confusion among public sector staff about the appropriate use of trans terminology. It is arguable that uncertainty over appropriate terminology is suggestive of a more fundamental gap in knowledge and understanding of the many different gender identities that fall under the transgender umbrella and the full breadth of issues faced by different trans people. These gaps are also evident in the many misunderstandings about the scope of their duties (particularly in context of changed duties and in how to incorporate human rights) and the lack of consensus about the best way to incorporate trans equality in schemes.
GIRES published a brief report on the status of local authorities' support of trans people and their families. and their compliance with the legal position:
Search the site.