Last week, The Students’ Union at UWE’s Board of Trustees passed our proposed Trans Inclusion Policy for staff members. The policy is closely shaped by the UNISON model policy which was drafted by Thompsons Solicitors. Especially in the context of rampant transphobia across society and cowardly employers unnecessarily throwing trans people under the bus, we are proud to have worked to give trans staff at the SU the protections, dignity and support that they deserve.
The policy was written in consultation with our UNISON Steward, management, and a trans SU staff member who serves as our Branch LGBT+ Rep. This is what strong trade unionism looks like and demonstrates the immense value of positive industrial relations. In the context of a legal limbo, we urge UWE to follow suit and engage constructively with the relevant unions, staff networks and student groups.