Updated Equality and Human Rights Code of Practice
10 Aug 2026
A message from Sarah Fox, Executive Director of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has published an updated statutory Code of Practice for services, public functions and associations. The Code was updated following the Supreme Court ruling in April 2025 on the meaning of sex in the Equality Act 2010 and came into force on 5th August 2026.
There has been significant public discussion and debate about these developments, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the issues involved. I know that members of our community will hold a range of views and experiences. While those differences may not always be easily reconciled, I expect them to be navigated respectfully and, in a manner, consistent with our values.
Our ambition at The University of Manchester is to be a place where everyone can experience safety and belonging. I believe this is entirely compatible with meeting our legal obligations and with enabling people with different identities, backgrounds, beliefs and experiences to study and work alongside one another with mutual respect. At the same time, our ambition goes beyond legal compliance: we want everyone to feel respected, welcomed and able to participate fully in University life.
While I do not anticipate that the updated Code of Practice will result in substantial changes to the day-to-day experience of members of our University community, I recognise that these developments may nevertheless create uncertainty, concern or anxiety for some people. I understand that recent public debate and policy developments have felt deeply personal for many trans and non-binary people, and I really do recognise the emotional impact that the current climate is having for trans and non-binary members of our community.
I therefore want to reaffirm something important: trans and non-binary colleagues and students remain a valued part of our University community. Nothing in these changes alters our commitment to ensuring that all members of our community are treated with dignity, respect and compassion. Discrimination, harassment, bullying, exclusion and transphobia have no place at our University.
Following the Supreme Court ruling last year, colleagues from across the University have been reviewing our estate, facilities and services to understand the implications of the judgment and to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our diverse community.
This work has reinforced my confidence that the University is well placed to continue providing inclusive services and facilities for colleagues, students and visitors. We know that no estate or institution is ever finished, and so this work will continue. We will keep our provision under review and, where appropriate opportunities arise, seek to strengthen and expand the facilities, services and support available across our community. We are committed to implementing any changes in a way that is practical, respectful and mindful of the impact on individuals, guided by the principle of proportionality. Our positive intent is that members of our community should not find themselves in a position where they feel compelled to use facilities that cause them discomfort or a sense of exclusion.
The University will not be monitoring the use of facilities by individuals. Instead, we will rely on the good judgement of our community and ask everyone to approach these matters with humanity, generosity of spirit and consideration for others.
We remain committed to listening to our community, meeting our legal obligations and fostering an environment in which every member of our University can feel respected, included and able to thrive.
Sarah Fox
Executive Director of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion