Transgender women given full access to female-only pool in Hampstead Heath
The trans-inclusive policy has been met by opposition claiming they aren't safe
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Transgender women have been given full access to the women-only pool at Hampstead Heath.
The City of London Corporation has announced plans to allow anybody who identifies as female to use the female-only pool in the north London park.
The new gender identity policy means anyone can access female facilities if they identify as a woman and the council says the move will help ensure a ‘robust and consistent approach’ to gender identity.
Edward Lord, chair of the establishment committee, which leads on the City Corporation’s workforce and inclusion policies, said: “This policy will ensure our public services do not discriminate against trans people.
“We support a wide range of service users and we want to ensure they can all feel comfortable accessing and enjoying our facilities.
“All communities should be fully respected, and equality and basic human rights upheld.
“We aspire to be a leader in diversity, equality and inclusion.
“We are committed to building and supporting a strong, sustainable and cohesive society in the capital and beyond, and this policy will take us one step further towards realising this vision.”
However, some women have expressed concerns over the pro-trans policy and according to website MyLondon some claim the policy puts their safety at risk.
One woman told the publication: “I will no longer be able to use women only pool and changing area if men are allowed in.
“My nieces are not allowed to be uncovered around men and will not be able to learn to swim.
“Muslim girls are put at risk and discriminated against by this change.”