The NEU remains committed to the important right for people who are trans or non-binary to self-identify.
The NEU recognises trans and non-binary identities and is aware and concerned about the unacceptable levels of discrimination faced by trans and non-binary staff in workplaces and within society. The NEU provides information and advice for all members to use, around LGBT+ inclusion, on how to develop inclusive approaches in schools and colleges, viewing a representative curriculum as central.
The Union’s democratic decisions place this important Union work within a wider agenda of challenging sexism and sex discrimination, and challenging homophobia and stereotypical attitudes about men and women.
The Union believes in the power of education to empower children and young people to identify stereotypes and develop positive attitudes.
https://neu.org.uk/advice/equality/lgbt-equality
Definition of transphobia
Transphobia is the fear or dislike of someone based on the fact that they are or are perceived of as trans or trans allies. It can take place through words or actions, expressing itself as harassment or hatred or in discriminatory practices and behaviours.
Transphobic behaviour will amount to harassment where the complainant reasonably perceives it as creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them.
The NEU’s commitment to protecting trans rights
We go further than the Equality Act 2010 and define trans to mean people whose gender is inconsistent with the sex they were registered at birth. Trans people need not have had any medical transition to be considered trans. They may describe themselves using a variety of terms including non-binary and gender non-conforming.
We accept and acknowledge that trans identities are real and valid. We recognise and condemn the harm that transphobic behaviour causes.
Nothing in this definition is intended to contravene the protections given to all protected groups under the Equality Act 2010. The NEU rejects all discrimination and recognises that holding and expressing gender critical views is protected by law under the Equality Act and the European Convention on Human Rights, Articles 9 and 10. This means holders of these views can express them freely, as long as they do so in a respectful manner, avoiding creating an environment which is hostile or discriminatory to trans people.
https://neu.org.uk/advice/equality/lgbt-equality/neu-statement-transphobia
Further Guidance
Trans & Non-binary Network
Upcoming actions… Saturday 26th April 2025
