Definition
Gender reassignment refers to people who propose to undergo, are undergoing or have undergone a process of gender reassignment. The umbrella term for this group is Trans or Transgender, which encompasses a wide range of people whose personal experience of their gender is different from what society might expect. This includes terms such as transsexual, transvestite and cross-dressing people. Trans people can be lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual.
Under the Equality Act 2010, Trans people cannot be directly or indirectly discriminated against, nor can they be harassed. The UK Government has published a specific Trans action plan. For action plan updates, please see the Home Office Transgender Equality site.
The broader picture
In Scotland, discrimination, prejudice and violence continue to affect the lives of many Trans people. A quarter of Trans people in Scotland have been forced out of their home because of transphobic abuse. 62% of Trans people have experienced harassment, verbal abuse and physical or sexual assault from strangers in public places. Only 15% have ever reported this to the police.
Over half of Trans people in Scotland have experienced discrimination or harassment at work, and 13% have had to quit their job at least once because of it.
46% of Trans people have never used any sport or leisure facility in Scotland, mainly due to the fear of harassment or abuse. Currently there are no statistics on the participation of Trans people in sport. Given that nearly half of Trans people have never used any sport or leisure facility in Scotland though, it is not likely to be high.
sportscotland believes that all people, regardless of gender reassignment, should have the opportunity to participate in sport. sportscotland is committed to fulfilling its duty under the Equality Act 2010 to advance equality of opportunity regardless of gender reassignment.
Charter against homophobia and transphobia in sport
In July 2011, the UK sports councils, as members of the Sports Councils Equality Group, signed the charter against homophobia and transphobia in sport. The four commitment statements in the charter are:
- Everyone should be able to participate in sport and enjoy it
- Sport is about fairness and equality, respect and dignity
- We will work together to rid sport of homophobia and transphobia
- We will make sport a welcome place for everyone
Anyone can sign the charter; individuals, sports clubs, governing bodies, spectators and so on. You can sign up by sending an email to the Home Office, or by liking the charters facebook page. For more details please see the Home Office Sports Charter page. sportscotland would strongly encourage you and your sporting organisation to sign up to the charter.
Additional resources