Statement of Support for the Trans Community

In light of the recent UK Supreme Court ruling on women and biological sex, we at the NACP wish to express our solidarity and unwavering support for trans, non-binary, and gender-questioning (TNBGQ) individuals — both within our membership and across the wider public.

We recognise that this decision has created confusion, anxiety, and distress among many therapists and clients, particularly those who fear the erosion of their rights, safety, and recognition. As a professional body committed to upholding dignity, equality, and psychological wellbeing, we feel it is essential to respond with clarity, compassion, and purpose.

Our Commitment to TNBGQ Inclusion

The NACP is a values-led organisation that stands for ethical, inclusive, and person-centred therapeutic care. We affirm:

• Everyone’s experience of gender is valid and deserving of respect
• TNBGQ therapists, clients, students, and supervisees are welcome and supported in our alliance
• Discrimination, harassment, or marginalisation — in any form — has no place in ethical practice

Our position is clear: trans rights are human rights, and trans people deserve safety, respect, and equitable access to therapy, supervision, and professional recognition.

Understanding the Supreme Court Ruling

The recent Supreme Court judgment ruled that, under UK equality law, the legal definition of “woman” refers to biological sex — not to gender identity, even in cases where a Gender Recognition Certificate is held. This means that transgender women may legally be excluded from single-sex spaces designated for biological females.

While the legal framework may shift, our ethical responsibilities as therapists do not. All people — regardless of their gender identity — remain protected under the Equality Act 2010 from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation. It is essential that this protection is upheld within all therapeutic settings.

What This Means for Our Members

We are currently reviewing the implications of this ruling in relation to:

• Safe and inclusive therapeutic environments
• Ethical practice across gender-diverse client populations
• Best practice guidance for therapists working with TNBGQ individuals

We will consult with legal experts, therapists with lived experience, and equality specialists to ensure any guidance we issue is both compliant and ethically sound. We invite respectful dialogue from our members as we navigate this together.

Client-Led, Not Belief-Led

The NACP holds that therapy must always remain client-led. Personal beliefs — including political, cultural, or religious views — must never interfere with the therapist’s ability to provide safe, affirming, and non-judgmental care. This applies universally and especially in work with marginalised or at-risk communities.

We reiterate to all members:

Discrimination, bias, or harm directed toward trans or non-binary clients, students, or colleagues is unethical and will not be tolerated.

Our Values in Action

The NACP is built on five key values:

• Excellence in care
• Ethical responsibility
• Client-centred practice
• Equity and respect
• Community and inclusion

These values demand that we stand firmly with those whose identities, rights, and mental health are under threat. For many in the trans community, therapy is a lifeline — and we are committed to ensuring that lifeline remains free of judgment, fear, or exclusion.

A Call to the Profession

We encourage all therapists — members or not — to take this time to reflect on your practice, your biases, and your commitment to anti-discrimination. Inclusion is not passive; it must be intentional, informed, and ongoing.

Together, we can build a profession where everyone is safe to be seen, heard, and supported.

With respect and solidarity,

The National Alliance of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (NACP)
📧 info@nacp.co.uk
🔗 www.nacp.co.uk