The Equality Network, together with LGBTQ+ organisations right across the UK, shares the anger at the UK Government’s decision not to include trans people in a proposed ban on conversion practices in England & Wales.

As a result and in solidarity with trans people across the UK the Equality Network will not participate in the UK Government’s “Safe To Be Me” Conference. We fully support the similar decisions of other LGBTQ+ organisations. Trans people are not “Safe to Be Me” in the UK at present.

It has become increasingly clear over the past few days that while some in the UK Government support the rights of LGBTQ+ people, other parts of UK Government have no understanding of or consideration for trans people and are willing to sacrifice their rights.

We will continue to work to ensure the proposed ban on conversion practices in Scotland, which the Scottish Government have said will include sexual orientation and gender identity, is passed successfully by the Scottish Parliament while continuing to support UK wide efforts to ensure all LGBT people, including trans people are protected from this abhorrent practice.