Thread by @TransActualUK

The Scottish Government is consulting on proposed reforms to the Gender Recognition Act. Here's what trans people are asking for from a reformed GRA.

(Accessibility info to follow)

The Scottish Government is consulting on proposed reforms to the Gender Recognition Act. Here's what trans people are asking for from a reformed GRA.

We asked hundreds of trans people what changes are needed to the UK’s Gender Recognition Act. This is what some of them told us.

“Changes are needed to provide recognition for non-binary gender identities and trans people under 18. There needs to be a removal of the need for spousal agreement, the removal of judgement panel and the removal of the two year wait.”

“People need to be able to determine their own identity and how they wish to move through the world. Safeguards and balances are needed - but not ones that are themselves judgemental.”

“The current system of a panel to ‘assess’ an individual’s gender is archaic, and given the current waiting times for NHS consultations, unworkable.”

“People should be allowed to declare that they are male/female/non-binary at a public notary or solicitor, with it being made crystal clear that there are legal ramifications and consequences for those who do it under false pretences.”

“Non-binary people like me need recognition. People who identify as non-binary or gender neutral should be allowed to state that on their identity documents and birth certificates.”

“Make it a simpler, streamlined process. Make it a legal document, on par with getting a passport. It also needs to include those that fall outside of the gender binary.”

“I would like to see: non-binary recognition, a less complicated process, and a less intrusive process. At the moment the application process for a Gender Recognition Certificate is extensive, expensive and intrusive.”

“I want to see all genders included. As a person who identifies as a non-binary gender, I want to be recognised.”

“I’d like to see a system of self-reporting gender, with appropriate checks and balances, like submission of a signed affidavit.”

“I’d like to be able to apply using a simple statutory declaration without the need for medical evidence. I’d also like this to include provisions for non-binary people and those under 18.”

“Reforms to the Gender Recognition Act ought to result in removal of the fee, removal of the panel judging & the removal of the need to provide extensive evidence. It should simply be an application to change details & a statutory declaration that those new details are correct.”

“Change from a medical model to just a statutory declaration. Obviously it would be illegal to make a false statutory declaration under perjury laws, so anyone trying to utilise the process for nefarious ends would be breaking the law.”

“Reduce the admin fee or make it easier to get it waived so that poor trans people are not excluded. Reduce the complexity of the forms that need filling in to make it more accessible to trans people with disabilities. Include and recognise of non-binary people’s identities.”

“I would like to see a system without gatekeeping, and without the need to present evidence of your trans status to a panel who have the right to refuse you a GRC. I would like to see a system where trans people do not have to prove their transness to a panel of strangers.”

“We need a quicker and simpler process, like in Ireland.”

All trans people are asking for is a few simple changes to the UK’s Gender Recognition Act.

You can help.

When the government consults on the Gender Recognition Act, use your voice and speak up for trans people.

(Aesthetics: Lots of different people’s arms reaching up)
End