May 2025
At Manningham Housing Association (MHA), we remain deeply committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion as core pillars of our mission to improve lives and transform communities. Following the recent UK Supreme Court ruling regarding the Equality Act, we want to offer clarity, reassurance, and support to our colleagues, customers, and partners.
What the Ruling Means
The Supreme Court decision clarified that, in certain legal contexts, the term “woman” in the Equality Act refers to biological sex. However, this ruling does not alter the protection transgender individuals have under the Act, specifically on the basis of gender reassignment. Legal rights and protections for trans people remain unchanged in our workplaces and services.
We recognise that the media coverage has often sensationalised the ruling, contributing to confusion, fear, and distress—particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community. As an organisation rooted in compassion and fairness, we want to affirm our support for all individuals regardless of gender identity.
Our Position
At MHA, we believe everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. We continue to uphold a zero-tolerance stance on discrimination, harassment, or exclusion of any kind. Our policies and practices ensure inclusive service delivery and a supportive work environment for all.
We reaffirm the following:
- We will continue to respect and affirm the identities of all our colleagues and customers, including trans and non-binary people.
- We will not tolerate any form of discrimination or prejudice within our organisation.
- We will maintain clear, inclusive policies guided by our values and evolving legal frameworks.
Support and Solidarity
Now more than ever, it is vital that we listen, learn, and act with empathy. We encourage everyone in the MHA community to:
- Check In with colleagues and customers. Ask how they are and offer a listening ear.
- Learn More about the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Seek understanding, not assumptions.
- Speak Up when witnessing discrimination or marginalisation. Allyship is essential.
Useful Resources
- Gendered Intelligence – Support and advice
- Mermaids – For under-18s and families
- Samaritans – 116 123
- Switchboard LGBTQ+ Helpline – 0800 0119 100
- Voda – LGBTQIA+ mental wellbeing app
We also encourage staff to connect with our internal EDI initiatives or speak confidentially to a member of the Corporate Services team if support is needed.
Moving Forward
We will continue to monitor legal developments and issue further updates as national guidance becomes available. Our responsibility is to foster a workplace and community where inclusion is not just a policy, but a daily practice.
Together, we will continue to stand against discrimination and stand up for dignity, equality, and respect for all.
Manningham Housing Association