TRANS 
INCLUSIVE 
BATHROOM 
ACCESS 
INITIATIVE

A GRASSROOTS ACTION FOR 
TRANS INCLUSION

Created by Sissy Anarchy

Last Updated: 01 May, 2025


STAFF TRAINING GUIDE


Overview

As part of our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and compliance with UK equality law, our business has adopted the Trans Inclusive Bathroom Access Sticker from the SISSY ANARCHY grassroots initiative. This visible symbol reinforces our dedication to providing safe and welcoming facilities for transgender and non-binary individuals.

This guide equips staff to

  • Understand the legal foundations and significance of the sticker.

  • Support trans individuals confidently and respectfully. 

  • Defuse or handle complaints, objections, or incidents of harassment in a professional and lawful manner.



UNDERSTANDING THE EQUALITY ACT 2010 


Protected Characteristics

Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful to discriminate against someone based on:
  • Sex

  • Gender reassignment

Gender Reassignment

This applies to anyone proposing to undergo, undergoing, or who has undergone a process to reassign their sex—regardless of whether they have had surgery or legal gender recognition.

Service Provision Implications

  • Businesses must ensure that facilities do not discriminate.

  • Reasonable accommodations should be made to allow individuals to use facilities that align with their gender identity.

  • The trans-inclusive sticker is a proactive measure to communicate this commitment.


WHAT THE STICKER REPRESENTS


Visibility and Support

  • The sticker signals that all individuals, including transgender and non-binary people, are welcome and safe to use the facility aligned with their identity.

  • It fosters mental well-being, reduces anxiety, and upholds dignity.

Key Message to Convey:

“This is a trans-inclusive space. Everyone is welcome to use the bathroom that best matches their gender identity.”



SUPPORTING TRANS AND NON-BINARY INDIVIDUALS 


Use Inclusive Language

  • Greet everyone with respect.

  • Use the name and pronouns someone provides you with—if you’re unsure, ask politely.

  • When a trans or non-binary person enters the premises, on the basis of using the inclusive bathroom, we ask that no further verification be required. Instead, please direct them accordingly.

Respect Privacy

  • Never question a person’s appearance or their right to use a particular facility.

  • Do not share or discuss someone’s gender identity with others without consent.

Facility Use Guidance

  • Trans and non-binary patrons can use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity.

  • If asked where someone “should” go, respond neutrally: “All our facilities are inclusive. People may use the one that suits them best.”



HANDLING OBJECTIONS OR HARASSMENT 


If a Customer Objects

  • Stay calm and professional.

  • Listen to the concern without agreeing or validating discrimination.

  • Educate gently: “Our business is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone, in line with the Equality Act.”

  • Redirect the conversation: “Let’s focus on ensuring everyone has a comfortable experience today.”


If Harassment Occurs

  • Intervene safely if you witness harassment or targeted comments.

  • Support the person affected: “Are you okay? Would you like to move somewhere more comfortable?”

  • Report the incident following your company’s procedures.

  • Remind all involved of the zero-tolerance policy for discrimination.


STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS


Be an ally: Model respectful language and behaviour.

Familiarise yourself with inclusion and diversity policies.

Participate in ongoing equality and sensitivity training.

Know your escalation protocol for incident response and reporting.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)


Q: What if someone insists that another patron is using the 'wrong' bathroom?
A: Reiterate our policy: “We trust all guests to use our facilities that best match their identity. We support everyone’s right to feel safe.”

Q: Can I ask someone what their gender is?
A: No. This is a private matter. Only ask for pronouns if relevant and done respectfully.

Q: How do I verify a trans and non-binary person on premises asking to use the inclusive bathroom, whether a customer or not?
A: You cannot and should not verify someone’s gender before showing them to the facilities. The person may ask to use the inclusive bathroom, or more simply ask where the facilities are. Please respectfully direct them accordingly.

Q: What if another customer complains loudly?
A: De-escalate and, if needed, remove them from the premises for violating the code of conduct.



ADDITIONAL RESOURCES



CHECKLIST FOR STAFF


  • Know the meaning and purpose of the trans-inclusive sticker.

  • Understand your legal responsibilities under the Equality Act.

  • Speak and act respectfully and inclusively.

  • Support trans patrons and ensure their dignity and safety.

  • Report and document any incidents of discrimination or harassment.


CONCLUSION


By following this guide, you help ensure that our space is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive for everyone—living up to both our values and legal obligations.

Return to the full initiative details here.

Created By:
Fi Kube, Caitlin McLoughlin and P. Eldridge.

For more visit our Substack here.
To purchase visit our BigCartel here.
@sissyanarchy


© SISSY ANARCHY, 2025