Read our toolkit, chapter by chapter
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You may have seen language or policies that undermine the material reality of sex by prioritising gender identity over sex. Many people think these changes are inaccurate, unhelpful or maybe even dangerous. It needs challenging and this may take courage.
We want to help you take meaningful steps to maintain the importance of sex in reproductive healthcare. Many people stay silent out of discomfort, embarrassment, dislike of making a ‘fuss’ and sometimes fear. They find their voice when they know they’re not alone.
This toolkit is for you if you’re a midwife, maternity support worker, lactation consultant, a breastfeeding peer supporter, a maternity and neonatal voice partnership (MNVP) representative, a doula, an antenatal educator… if you are anyone involved in supporting or caring for women and their reproductive health, whether that’s fertility, pregnancy, birth and postnatal period, or other health concerns.
Chapter 1: Background
Why it matters to be clear about sex, gender and gender identity. If you’re planning on challenging confusion and conflation, start here.
Chapter 2: Steps you can take
Our tips on starting to challenge ‘inclusivity’ when it excludes women, mothers, sex-based language, policies and priorities. Learn about impact assessments, when/how to use a Freedom of Information request, check out all the communications in your organisation/situation.
Chapter 3: Supporting guidance, studies and policies
Overview of and links to the many policies, guidance and research you can use as support.
Chapter 4: Frequently asked questions
Some real-life issues, small and large, which we have helped with, and the tactics you can copy. Advice on getting media coverage.
Chapter 5: Case studies
True life case studies showing positive resolutions to problems, challenges and campaigns.
Chapter 6: The law
UK law including details about the Equality Act, plus info about Gender Recognition Certificates.
Chapter 7: Workplace rights
Protections for you if you speak up including support if you’re a whistle blower, and if you have gender critical views and experience discrimination or poor treatment as a result.
Chapter 8: Captured
Examples of poor policies and statements showing how ‘captured’ organisations related to maternity and women’s health have become, and how they privilege gender identity over sex.
Help your colleagues understand the issues with our free PDF
With Woman 