Thread by @MerchedCymru

Providing single-sex wards in hospitals was high on the political agenda in Wales and across the UK for many years. This was reflected in law and policy. While we’re in hospital we’re unwell, often at our most vulnerable: in a state of undress, we may need additional support >

> with bodily functions, feel scared and confused and be unable to defend ourselves should the need arise.

The Explanatory Notes that accompany the Equality Act 2010 specifically state that single-sex services provided in a hospital or other place where users need special >

> care, supervision or attention can be lawfully provided. The specific example given is of separate male and female hospital wards. The Statutory Code for Services, Public Functions and Associations also mentions single-sex wards in hospitals, mental health facilities and >

> provision in nursing homes.

Despite the recognition given to the privacy, safety and dignity of female patients in law, progress on increasing single-sex provision has slowed. In addition guidelines, ‘inclusion’ guides and policies on service delivery and trans inclusion >

> actively undermine and misrepresent the Equality Act and do not consider the impact on female patients. Some initiatives even place the feelings of health care practitioners over the legal rights and well-being of patients. Women-only hospital wards are lawful -on the basis >

> of #SexNotGender - and are key to protecting our safety, privacy and dignity. We call on politicians, policy makers and health providers to place this high on the agenda once more.
#EqualityAct2010 #RhywNidRhywedd