Guidance on transgender employees published by LSEW

Guidance for solicitors on working with transgender employees has been published by the Law Society of England & Wales.

The guidance has been prepared to help solicitors fulfil their duties as employers under the Equalities Act 2010, under which gender reassignment is a protected characteristic.

It covers working with transgender employees and also duties in relation to those who wish to make the transition process, explaining the legislation and the considerations for a business to take into account.

The Society's chief executive, Catherine Dixon commented: "Firms and individuals from within the profession have asked for advice and support around this important issue.

"People who are transgender are entitled to be treated with the same dignity and respect afforded to others in the workplace. Solicitors are committed to demonstrate a positive and inclusive approach to transgender employees to ensure that they attract, promote and retain the best talent.

"The Government Transgender Action Plan issued in 2011 states that 88% of transgender employees experience discrimination or harassment in their workplace. Our guidance is therefore aimed at supporting solicitors to meet their legal obligations and to encourage equality, diversity and inclusion within the profession.

"It will also help solicitors, employers, colleagues and consultants to understand the practical, social, psychological and emotional issues relating to the process of changing gender and the issues that should be considered in the workplace to actively include an employee who is transgender."

Click here to view the guidance.