A series of schools will be forced to introduce gender-neutral toilets to be more inclusive to trans children.
Under the controversial guidance that has sparked outrage in local communities, schools in Brighton, UK, will be required to provide toilets that can be accessed by anyone and are therefore gender-neutral.
The ‘Trans Inclusion Toolkit’ will affect a series of educational institutions across East Sussex, whereas schools will now have to “provide pupils and students with a mixture of access to toilets.”
The guidance backed by Brighton and Hove City Council reportedly comes shortly after it was concluded that many young trans people will prefer to use gender-neutral toilets to avoid harassment or bullying.
As the supporters of the initiative suggested, ditching single-sex toilets will also help young people who don’t identify with their gender.
Critics, however, were quick to voice their anger over the sudden changes as they argued that students, especially young girls, need privacy and shouldn’t have to share the bathroom with members of the other gender.
“Girls need privacy. It is ridiculous idea. Just like mixed wards in hospitals were, this a major step backwards,” one angry resident said.
Despite facing a major backlash, however, the city council insists that the Trans Inclusion Toolkit is a big step forward.
“This is an important element of work to ensure all pupils in our city’s schools feel safe and supported,” Councilor Hannah Clare claimed.
“Supporting trans children is just one vital part of continued efforts to tackle any form of discrimination. We want all pupils to feel comfortable in their own skin so they can make the most of all that education offers and flourish into being the very best version of themselves.
“Many of our schools are already working to ensure that their environment and curriculum celebrates all children and their families.
“This Toolkit provides guidance on how to ensure trans members of the community feel equally welcome, represented and safe in our city.”
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