Reforms to make it easier for transgender people to get change legally recognised

Proposals to make it easier for transgender people to gain legal recognition of their new gender have been unveiled.

The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on planned reforms to the “out-of-date'' UK Gender Recognition Act 2004.

The proposed changes aim to simplify the process by removing “intrusive and onerous'' requirements on those applying to have their new gender legally recognised.

Ministers want to lower the age at which people can apply to change gender from 18 to 16 as well as remove the requirement for applicants to provide medical evidence and to have lived in their new gender for two years.

These would be replaced with a 'self-declaration' system, meaning the decision on whether an applicant can be recognised is entirely based on a declaration or statement from that person.

The consultation is also seeking views on what recognition should be given to non-binary people, who do not identify as male or female.

Equalities Secretary Angela Constance said: “Scotland rightly has a reputation as one of the most progressive countries in relation to LGBTI legal and human rights equality in Europe - but we need to do more to progress equality for trans people.

“Both our Fairer Scotland action plan and this year's programme for government commit to renewing the 2004 Gender Recognition Act.

“This Act was once considered ahead of its time but it now needs updated so we can ensure we are creating a fairer Scotland for those who are transgender and non-binary.

“By holding a full and wide ranging consultation we can make sure that our law is fit for purpose and in line with international best practice.

“This is a vital conversation and one which will ensure transgender and non-binary people in Scotland are treated with dignity, fairness and respect.'