Monday 28-04-2025 - 16:46

Hi everyone, it's Jason and Liv here - your Trans & Gender Diverse and LGBTQIA+ Student Council Officers.

The recent Supreme Court ruling is difficult news for us all, so we wanted to take the time to reach out and let you all know that we have been, and will continue to be, working tirelessly to support you and advocate for your rights. 

While the ruling provides a legal definition, it cannot be used to justify discrimination. It remains illegal for someone to challenge or attempt to verify whether you are using the 'correct' space, and we are still protected under the Equality Act. You are not intruding – you belong, and we stand firmly with you in solidarity.

If you need support at this time, the following services are available:

• Switchboard LGBTQIA+ are available 10am - 10pm daily. Either call on 0800 0119 100, email them at hello@switchboard.lgbt or use their live chat feature.

• Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org

• SHOUT are available 24/7, and if you text 'Switchboard' to 85258 they'll be aware that you may need queer-specific support.

• Gendered Intelligence are available during the day (Monday 12-5pm, Tuesday 2-7pm, Wednesday 10-3pm, Thursday 12-5pm, and Friday 10-3pm) on 0800 640 8046, on WhatsApp at 07592 650 496, or through their email at supportline@genderedintelligence.co.uk

• The Student Assistance Programme is available 24/7 on 0800 028 3766. For more information on the programme, check it out here.

• If you would like to speak with someone from the University for support, you can contact the Student Services Helpdesk who can book you an appointment with the Wellbeing & Mental Health team – call 01244 511550 or email studentservices@chester.ac.uk

We are also here if you need someone to talk to or have any questions. Our emails are 2314830@chester.ac.uk (Jason), and 2230296@chester.ac.uk (Liv).

Know that they cannot erase us, and you are not alone in this.

Jason and Liv