Trans Inclusion at Notts SVSS

Notts SVSS are proud to support survivors of sexual violence aged 18 and above, and this includes people who are trans.

We know that the Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act has been distressing for trans communities, with media reporting and public reactions causing more fear and uncertainty.  Subsequent rulings, tribunals and other decisions have, in many instances, made things seem more unclear.

As an organisation we have taken advice and looked at our own policies around inclusion and ways in which we support clients of any gender.  We have done this work from the stance of remaining inclusive and affirming of everyone who comes to us for support.

As part of this work, we have redrafted our Trans Inclusion Policy, where we continue to affirm trans people’s right to support, using the services that most closely match their lived gender.  The support and services we offer to trans survivors has not changed and this includes access to helpline, counselling, group support and ISVA services.

We are mindful that some cis-gendered women may feel more comfortable accessing support from staff and groups described as being for biological women* only.  In response to this, we have widened our offer to include biological women only groups and access to staff who have self-identified as biological women. These means that women who would prefer support from a biological woman will be offered this wherever possible.

We have always been very clear that we value and appreciate everyone who comes to us asking for support and we believe the things they tell us.  We are proud to offer safe, inclusive and affirming services to all those who come to us for support.

*We use the term ‘biological women’ to mean that as defined by the Supreme Court