You might remember that a little while ago I wrote to my MP regarding the current persecution of trans people in politics and the media. You can read it here.

A couple of days ago I had a reply from my MP:

I hope you are well, and thank you very much for writing to me and for sharing your detailed concerns about access to healthcare for trans people and the sharp rise in hate crimes. I appreciate you taking the time to outline your views, and I understand why this is a deeply important and urgent issue.

I have already written to Bridget Phillipson to raise concerns about the implications of recent court rulings, the EHRC’s proposed guidance, and the worrying reports of GPs refusing to provide gender-affirming healthcare to trans patients. I have also asked for an update about the Government’s next steps to ensure equality in healthcare access, and I can share her reply with you once it arrives if you would like me to do so?

I believe everyone in our country deserves to live with safety, dignity and freedom, including trans, non-binary, gender-fluid and intersex people. I want to reassure you that I remain committed to fighting discrimination, bigotry and any attempts to diminish the rights of any group. Everyone must be able to access healthcare that meets their needs without fear of prejudice or delay.

The reports of trans people being refused basic healthcare, or being denied access to hormone treatment or gender-specific NHS services, are deeply concerning. Access to safe, timely and compassionate healthcare is a fundamental right. Ministers must ensure that the NHS provides consistent, non-discriminatory care and that no patient is left without treatment because of who they are.

The recent court ruling and the EHRC’s response have understandably raised questions about how guidance will affect both the legal rights and the healthcare access of trans people. While the Government does not control the judiciary and the independence of the courts is a cornerstone of our democracy, it is the responsibility of Ministers and statutory bodies such as the EHRC to ensure that guidance upholds equality and human rights for everyone.

I have had some very constructive meetings with LGBTQ+ charities and organisations in Southampton to discuss concerns about access to healthcare and rising hate crime, including a recent meeting with the trans youth charity In Focus. I have also submitted Parliamentary Questions on this issue, and you can view responses to Written Parliamentary Questions here.

The laws that protect trans people, including the protected characteristic of gender reassignment under the Equality Act 2010, remain in force. My aim, and Labour’s aim, is to ensure these protections are upheld in practice so that trans people can access healthcare, services and support without discrimination.

I share your hope for a society built on fairness, mutual respect and equality, and I will continue to press Ministers to address the serious concerns raised by healthcare professionals and human rights bodies before approving any new EHRC guidance. If you have any further concerns, or if you or someone you know is directly affected by these issues, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Thank you again for writing and for raising this important matter.

Very best wishes, 

Satvir

Not a bad response from her, all things considered: she comes across as compassionate and supportive, whilst delicately not undermining her political party. She is already acting through some of the channels open to her the minister and local LGBT+ charities.

She’s certainly making the right sort of noises in response to my letter.

Here’s my response:

Dear Satvir,

Thank you very much for your thoughtful and detailed reply – I really appreciate the care you’ve taken to address these issues and the actions you’ve already taken to raise them with Bridget Phillipson. Yes, I would be very grateful if you could share her response when it arrives.

I’m glad to hear about your meetings with local LGBTQ+ organisations and your continued focus on equality in healthcare. If it would be useful, I’d be very happy to contribute further or offer any assistance – whether through sharing perspectives, helping with local discussions, or providing input on policy concerns from a constituent’s point of view.

I’m non-binary, but my identity is less visible, so I’ve been shielded from some of the hostility others face. I feel a responsibility to use that privilege to stand with those whose safety and access to care are under threat. Your commitment to ensuring dignity, safety and fair access for everyone means a great deal, and I appreciate you continuing to press Ministers on these urgent matters.

With best wishes,

I’ll post any updates on the blog as they arrive!