An update to our previous statement regarding changing spaces at the Sportspark.
On 16 April, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the protected characteristic of “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex, not certificated sex attained through a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC).
UEA must comply with our legal responsibilities across the entire Equality Act 2010, for all protected groups and characteristics. In light of this new ruling, we are prioritising work to understand implications and the steps we will take next to ensure compliance, including any changes to relevant policies and access to single-sex spaces.
What this ruling does not change is our commitment to the safety of all students, staff and visitors accessing our campus. All have the right to be here without intimidation or fear. This requires each of us to act respectfully and compassionately towards others, especially those with whom we might have differences.
We will continue to pay close attention to guidance coming out following this ruling and will provide a further update about any immediate or interim steps being taken.
We have designated male and female changing spaces and provide a range of alternate changing and showering options to accommodate all of our users. These alternate options include separate and accessible changing, self-contained changing cubicles as well as group change spaces. We provide self-contained shower facilities in addition to our communal areas.
Our designated male and female changing spaces are currently operating as single-sex spaces, and if accessing these facilities, users are asked to select the facility that aligns with their biological sex.
We ask all Sportspark users to be respectful to others and sensitive to different personal circumstances when using our facilities.
Regarding recent protests and online campaigns, we have a responsibility to operate within the legal frameworks protecting freedom of speech. This includes the expression
of all lawful opinions, even those that may be controversial or unpopular, or those we may personally disagree with. It is crucial that we remain neutral in order to effectively fulfil our responsibilities.
Under UK law, all individuals have the right to engage in peaceful protest and as long as a protest remains lawful, we do not have any powers to intervene. The UEA security team continues to work closely with local police to ensure all planned events are lawful. If any unlawful conduct is identified on our campus, we will act, liaising with police as appropriate.
We would like to reassure Sportspark users that any attempt to undertake protests within the facilities, or cause disruption to the business, is prohibited and will be dealt with as necessary.
Users are reminded that they can report any behavioural or safeguarding concerns to sportspark@uea.ac.uk or to the Manager on Duty.
