An updated version of the University’s Trans Equality Policy statement and guidance is now available.
This revision responds to the Office for Students’ ruling of 26 March 2025 against the University of Sussex and has been made to meet our institutional legal and regulatory responsibilities under the OfS’s Conditions of Registration.
As we shared in our recent update ‘Reaffirming our commitment to an inclusive campus’, our values of compassion, collaboration, inclusivity and integrity remain central to how we operate. This update reaffirms those values while ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.
Prior to publication, the revised policy has been discussed with relevant staff groups including the LGBT+ staff and student networks and our recognised trade unions, as well as Leeds University Union.
The updated Policy statement has been considered by the University Executive and the Ethics and Values Committee and was approved by our governing body, the Council, on 16 May 2025.
Key points to note
- The review of the Policy statement has been limited to directly addressing points raised in the OfS ruling and £585k fine against Sussex regarding its similar Policy and external legal guidance and does not represent any change in our overall commitment to inclusion.
- The policy now includes updated language around freedom of speech and formal references to relevant legal frameworks.
Alongside the policy, our guidance for supporting trans staff and students remains available and will be kept under review.
Please email any questions to the Equality and Inclusion Unit at equality@leeds.ac.uk.
Student support
Our University support and wellbeing services and Leeds University Union (LUU) offer students help, advice, and a safe space to talk about any concerns and issues.
Leeds University Union recently issued a Statement of Solidarity with the Trans Community, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and providing information on additional available support services.
Reporting abuse
If you have experienced any kind of violence, abuse, bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct or discrimination, you can access support through the University’s Harassment and Misconduct team.
You can access support without making a formal report. The team offers confidential advice and guidance, helps you explore your options, and can support you in accessing further services or making a formal report if you choose.
To contact the team, complete the confidential disclosure form – an advisor will get in touch within one working day. You can also make an anonymous disclosure if you’d prefer not to share your contact details.
If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent support on campus, use the SafeZone app or phone University Security 24/7 on +44(0)113 343 2222. In an emergency, always call 999.