Minister Bridget Phillipson (Equality and Women) confirms the new EHRC guidance does not apply to workplaces. This statement addresses employers seeking answers on gender-separated facilities policies.

The EHRC (Equality and Human Rights Commission) recently published revised guidance. This followed an important April 2025 court ruling. The court determined that 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 means biological sex only. This significantly clarified confusing areas in British anti-discrimination law.

Employers have waited months for clarity. Many organisations struggle knowing how to apply this ruling at work. However, Phillipson's statement raises new questions. If EHRC guidance does not cover workplaces, which rules must employers follow?

The government appears to be buying time by shifting responsibility to employers. Employer organisations worry about potential lawsuits. Without clear guidance, they risk costly disputes.