Supporting Our Student Community Following the Supreme Court Ruling on the Definition of ‘Woman’

On 16 April, the UK Supreme Court issued a ruling that clarified the legal definition of the word ‘woman’ under the Equality Act 2010. 

We recognise that this ruling will be concerning or unsettling for some of our students, and for staff. This decision has prompted a wide range of responses and raised important questions for many people – particularly for our transgender individuals and their communities.

We at The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union recognise that this ruling may be received in different ways across our student community. At the same time, we want to acknowledge the significant impact it will have on our trans students, colleagues, friends, and allies. We remain committed to fostering a community where everyone feels respected, supported, and safe.

The Union remains fully dedicated to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all our students and the wider University community. The ruling does not change our values. This includes upholding the dignity, rights, and wellbeing of trans and non-binary members of our community.

We know there’s still a lot of uncertainty about what this ruling might mean in practice. We’re expecting more guidance to come, and until then, we can’t say for sure what - if anything - might need to change. We’ll keep reviewing things carefully, and any decisions we make will continue to be guided by our values of inclusion, respect, and support for all students.

In times of uncertainty, knowing where to find support is essential. We want to remind students that there are services available for anyone needing help, reassurance, or simply someone to talk to:

Support Services:

The Union Advice Service: The Union Advice Service offers confidential, impartial and non-judgemental support on a range of academic and university issues that may affect your experience.
Online request form
Email: advice@upsu.net
Phone: 023 9284 3478
Location: Underneath the Student Centre where the Eye Clinic used to be, Cambridge Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2EF. Open from 10am - 4pm Monday - Friday.

Student Life Team: For advice, guidance, and ongoing support with concerns related to your wellbeing.
Email at studentlife@port.ac.uk

Student Wellbeing Service: Offering same-day interventions for students experiencing distress. The team includes Mental Health Advisers and Wellbeing Advisers who can help you develop coping strategies. 
Phone:+442392843466 
Email: wellbeing-admin@port.ac.uk

Chaplaincy: Providing pastoral and spiritual support regardless of faith or belief. Our chaplains are available for confidential conversations. 
Email: chaplains@port.ac.uk 

ResLife Team: If you need urgent support outside of regular university hours, our ResLife team is available for students living in university accommodation. 
Phone: +44 (0)23 9284 3333
Email: reslife@port.ac.uk

Community Support

We also encourage students to check in on one another during this time. A kind message or a thoughtful gesture can go a long way in supporting someone who may be struggling.
Portsmouth City Council also has a page of advice about what support is locally available. 
HIVE is a local charity which also offers a directory of support available within the community.

As a Union, we are proud to be part of a vibrant, compassionate, and inclusive community. We will continue to support our students and reaffirm our shared commitment to creating a place where everyone feels seen, safe, and valued.