UK Regulator Offers Guidance to Businesses Navigating Complex Sex and Gender Laws
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has taken steps to help businesses comply with the UK's sex and gender laws, which can be complex and nuanced. The regulator emphasizes that it is the law itself that businesses must follow, rather than relying on its guidance.
In an effort to balance the rights of service users and protect everyone from discrimination, the EHRC has released an updated code of practice for service providers. This guidance was informed by consultation with over 50,000 organizations and individuals, including businesses, which provided valuable feedback that helped shape the updated guidance.
While the EHRC acknowledges that its guidance cannot cover every possible scenario or physical layout, it encourages businesses to review their policies and consider making changes as needed to ensure compliance with the law. The regulator notes that implementing the law may require some costs, but contesting litigation through tribunals and courts could result in even greater financial and reputational consequences.
As a regulator, the EHRC's role is not to create the law, but rather to advise on it and uphold it. Chair Kishwer Falkner emphasizes the importance of fairness and equality for all individuals, arguing that businesses have a responsibility to implement the law and avoid discrimination.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has taken steps to help businesses comply with the UK's sex and gender laws, which can be complex and nuanced. The regulator emphasizes that it is the law itself that businesses must follow, rather than relying on its guidance.
In an effort to balance the rights of service users and protect everyone from discrimination, the EHRC has released an updated code of practice for service providers. This guidance was informed by consultation with over 50,000 organizations and individuals, including businesses, which provided valuable feedback that helped shape the updated guidance.
While the EHRC acknowledges that its guidance cannot cover every possible scenario or physical layout, it encourages businesses to review their policies and consider making changes as needed to ensure compliance with the law. The regulator notes that implementing the law may require some costs, but contesting litigation through tribunals and courts could result in even greater financial and reputational consequences.
As a regulator, the EHRC's role is not to create the law, but rather to advise on it and uphold it. Chair Kishwer Falkner emphasizes the importance of fairness and equality for all individuals, arguing that businesses have a responsibility to implement the law and avoid discrimination.