News

Landmark ruling: Supreme Court backs biological definition of woman

Published

8 months ago

April 16, 2025

IN A LANDMARK judgment with far-reaching implications, the UK Supreme Court has ruled unanimously that the legal definition of a “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 refers exclusively to biological females. The ruling, delivered on Wednesday (Apr 16), marks a decisive legal victory for gender-critical campaigners and ends years of ambiguity over how the law should treat transgender women in single-sex spaces and public appointments.

The case was brought by the campaign group For Women Scotland (FWS), who challenged the Scottish Government’s policy allowing transgender women with Gender Recognition Certificates (GRCs) to be counted as women on public boards under legislation designed to achieve gender balance.

The Supreme Court ruled that such a definition went beyond the powers of the Scottish Parliament and was inconsistent with the meaning of “woman” under the Equality Act.

Women protest outside the supreme court in London last November (Image: Zuma)

Legal clarity on biological sex

Deputy President of the Court, Lord Hodge, said the justices found that “sex” in the Equality Act refers to a biological woman and biological sex. “Although the word ‘biological’ does not appear in this definition, the ordinary meaning of those plain and unambiguous words corresponds with the biological characteristics that make an individual a man or a woman,” he said.

The judges rejected the argument that sex could be interpreted based on GRCs, calling such a view “incoherent” and “fanciful.” They further warned that allowing a definition of sex based on certification would create “heterogeneous groupings” and undermine the protections the law intends to offer.

Implications for single-sex spaces and policies

The ruling affirms that protections under the Equality Act apply to biological sex, enabling organisations to restrict access to women-only spaces and services — such as domestic violence refuges, rape crisis centres, hospital wards, and changing rooms — based on biological sex rather than legal gender status.

The Court emphasised that the ruling does not diminish the protections transgender people have under the protected characteristic of “gender reassignment,” but clarified that a person’s biological sex cannot be altered by acquiring a GRC for the purpose of the Equality Act.

In a key passage, the judges noted: “A man who identifies as a woman who is treated less favourably because of the protected characteristic of gender reassignment will be able to claim on that basis.”

Government and campaign reaction

A UK Government spokesperson welcomed the decision, saying it “brings clarity and confidence for women and service providers such as hospitals, refuges, and sports clubs.” Former Equalities Minister and now Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch called it a “victory for women,” adding: “Women are women and men are men: you cannot change your biological sex.”

Mims Davies MP, the Conservative shadow women’s minister, said the government must now “clarify all existing guidance to ensure public bodies understand that sex means biological sex.”

Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry KC, who previously warned that broad definitions of sex could harm women’s rights, said she felt “hugely vindicated” and urged both UK and Scottish governments to implement the ruling into everyday policy.

Lara Brown of the Policy Exchange thinktank said the decision “secured women’s sex-based rights,” adding: “It should never have taken a court case to prove the biological definition of a woman.”

Celebrations and protest

Marion Calder and Susan Smith of For Women Scotland were photographed celebrating outside the Supreme Court, with FWS posting jubilant messages on social media. The group Sex Matters, which intervened in the case, said: “The court has given the right answer: the protected characteristic of sex – male and female – refers to reality, not paperwork.”

However, trans rights campaigners expressed alarm at the wider impact of the ruling. Scottish Trans urged supporters “not to panic,” while Ellie Gomersall of the Scottish Greens said the judgment “undermines the vital human rights of my community to dignity, safety and the right to be respected for who we are.”

Amnesty International, the only trans-inclusive organisation allowed to intervene, warned the case could be the “thin end of the wedge” and potentially erode other rights for transgender people.

Legal background and funding

The ruling concludes a long-running legal battle over the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018, which sought to ensure 50% female representation and included trans women with GRCs in the definition of “woman.” FWS argued this conflicted with the Equality Act’s definition of sex and that Holyrood had exceeded its legislative competence.

Their challenge was dismissed in the Scottish courts before being brought to the Supreme Court. A crowdfunding campaign led by FWS raised £230,000 for legal costs, including a £70,000 contribution from author JK Rowling.

No transgender individuals were allowed to participate directly in the hearings, a decision criticised by some legal commentators, including retired judge Victoria McCloud, who said an international appeal might have been pursued if the case had gone the other way.

Future legislative reform?

While the ruling interprets existing law, it does not itself change legislation. However, it is expected to lead to renewed calls for Parliament to amend the Equality Act 2010 to reflect modern understandings of gender and sex — or to confirm its reliance on biological definitions.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has previously called for the Act to be clarified, warning that MPs “had not appreciated the consequences for women and lesbians” of the law viewing transgender women with GRCs as legally female.

There are also concerns the ruling may embolden those campaigning to reverse aspects of the Gender Recognition Act 2004, particularly around the legal recognition of acquired gender.

Despite shelving previous reform plans, Labour has indicated it remains committed to protecting transgender rights and is expected to proceed with a trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices later this year.

A moment of reckoning

The Herald understands this decision marks a pivotal moment in UK equalities law, drawing a firm legal distinction between sex and gender identity.

For some, it is a long-overdue return to legal clarity and sex-based rights; for others, it represents a retreat from inclusion and a chilling signal to the trans community.

Lord Hodge concluded the judgment by urging restraint, saying: “This should not be seen as a triumph of one group over another.” Yet as the dust settles on the Supreme Court steps, both sides are preparing for what comes next.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.