Arts Students’ Union’s Sabbatical Officer team have released a statement on the recent Supreme Court ruling and the Office for Students fine handed to Sussex University.
On 16th April 2025, the Supreme Court ruled on gender definitions within the Equalities Act 2010. The elected Officer Team at Arts Students' Union (Arts SU) wishes to express our deep disappointment at the ruling which excludes members of our community and incites further an environment of discrimination, prejudice and hate speech to our trans and non-binary members.
This follows a decision by University of the Arts London (UAL) to remove its Trans and Non-Binary Policy pending a review in response to a decision by the Office for Students (OFS) to fine the University of Sussex £585,000 for their failure to uphold freedom of speech and academic freedom. While included in this review, we are deeply concerned at the speed and care taken to do so without extensive engagement with the wider community at UAL.
We stand in solidarity with our trans and non-binary community, and we condemn the ruling and call on UAL to take a firmer stance in protecting and standing in solidarity with our trans and non-binary staff and students.
We will be taking time to consider any detailed guidance from the Government fully, and continue to work with the University to support our students. We want to assure our community that we remain committed to creating and fostering an inclusive environment for our members.
We will continue to represent trans, non-binary and gender diverse students here at UAL. Our work, policies and campaigns will continue to ensure the that Students’ Union is a safe space for all students.
We want to urge our affected members to seek support within your communities and reach out to charities, and non-profit organisations such as those in the resources section below.
Resources for trans community and allies offering resources
Gendered Intelligence – a trans-led charity with a focus on improving the lives of trans and non binary people, including tailored support for young people.
The Beaumont Society – a trans led charity which helps and support the trans community.
Gender Kit – a charity which provides advice and support for people questioning their gender.
Canterbury Trans Network – a mutual aid network and social community charity for trans, non-binary, intersex people above the age of 18.
If you are personally affected by the events that have taken place and wish to seek support:
Contact the Dean of Students, Mark Crawley, at m.crawley@arts.ac.uk.
Tell Someone
Whilst there haven’t been any reported incidents of hate crime, racist, or transphobic abuse/ comments, should this occur, you can report this via UAL Tell Someone, either named or anonymously.
Arts SU Advice Service
You can come to our Advice Service at any point for free, confidential advice. They can also support you with submitting Extenuating Circumstances (ECs) if you need to do this.
UAL Mental Health Service, Counselling & Chaplaincy
You can request an appointment with a Mental Health advisor from UAL, attend drop-in sessions with the Counselling Service, or speak confidentially with one of the two Chaplains.
— Arts SU Sabbatical Officer Team 2024/25