By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight’s Council and NHS have confirmed they are reviewing updated national guidance on single-sex spaces.
The move follows the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s updated Statutory Code of Practice, which came into effect on August 5.
The updated Code reflects a May 2025 Supreme Court ruling establishing that the term “sex” under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex. Under the revised guidelines, service providers must ensure single-sex spaces – such as public toilets and changing facilities – are accessed based on biological sex rather than self-identified gender. Campaigners for women-only spaces argue that clear, enforced biological boundaries are vital for safety, privacy, and dignity, warning that failing to implement formal policies leaves organisations vulnerable to legal claims in courts and tribunals.
Addressing questions over compliance, an Isle of Wight Council spokesman said the authority is “confident it is compliant with the provision of single sex spaces across its services where required”. He added: “The Code itself does not impose legal obligations. That is the role of a court or tribunal. We are reviewing the guidance to consider how a policy should apply in different circumstances to ensure appropriate consideration of all affected interests and provide transparency for service users as suggested in the code”.
A spokeswoman for the Island’s NHS Trust said: “We have been working closely with teams across our staff networks, estates, education, wellbeing, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) to assess any local implications this guidance may have across our services and colleagues.
“We continue to review local arrangements, policies, and guidance and will communicate any changes to staff and patients.
“While we wait for additional NHS guidance, expected to be published shortly, we believe it is important to maintain respect, compassion, and support for everyone we work with and care for. Once this further guidance is published, we will take action to implement any requirements not already in place.”
We did not receive a response on whether the hospital is compliant with the current rules before we went to press.
Tilly Walder 
Mal Butler