Lancashire transgender support refuge says Girlguiding's ban on trans girls will harm young people
Melissa Dee says exclusion sends harmful messages to young people.
Melissa Dee, Chief Operating Officer of Loving Me, which operates the UK’s first domestic abuse refuge for trans and non-binary individuals, has spoken out following Girlguiding's decision to exclude trans girls and young women from membership.
Announced on 2nd December, the policy change comes after the Supreme Court’s ruling earlier this year on sex and gender under the Equality Act. While there will be no immediate changes for existing young members, Girlguiding has promised additional information in the coming days.
Melissa says the decision risks causing significant emotional harm to young trans girls.
“My first thought was about the effect on the girls themselves – especially those who were attending Girl Guides with friends and enjoying activities – and now being told they are no longer welcome just because of who they are. It’s heartbreaking.”
She explained how repeated exclusionary messages could harm young trans individuals’ mental health and self-worth over time.
“This goes far beyond Girl Guides. The UK is sending a wider signal that trans people are not welcome here, and this exclusion is part of a systematic rollback of acceptance and rights. It’s going to cause immense damage over time.”
Girlguiding has said the decision was made after careful consideration, legal advice, and member feedback. It stated the Supreme Court ruling left the organisation facing potential legal threats to its existing trans-inclusive policies, which had been in place since 2017.
However, Melissa challenged their stance, arguing such exclusion is incompatible with their stated values of dignity, respect, and inclusion.
“There’s no inclusion when you exclude someone. There’s no dignity or respect when you push trans children away. Leaders and organisations need to stand up and push back against this – they must call on the government to act to safeguard the rights of trans people.”
Melissa also raised wider concerns about service exclusion across different sectors, referencing domestic abuse support and organisations like the Football Association restricting trans women’s access to sports.
Girlguiding has pledged to continue supporting marginalised groups with new initiatives while maintaining its long-standing values of empowering girls and young women. A taskforce is being established to help shape an inclusive future, with members of all ages encouraged to contribute ideas.
Melissa urged individuals to show solidarity and advocate for trans-inclusive practices.
“If you value inclusion, now is the time to act. Call on the government, and support trans people in your life. We need action to protect and restore our rights.”
Girlguiding says it will share more updates on its plans in the coming weeks as it continues exploring ways to help marginalised communities.