We, the undersigned, wish to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the recent decision to restrict membership within Girl guiding to those deemed “biologically female” at birth. This policy effectively bans trans girls and young women from joining and imposes a deadline for existing members to leave.

Girl guiding has long stood as a beacon of inclusion, shaping the lives of approximately 385,000 girls and young women across the UK. From Rainbows through to Rangers, the organisation has consistently championed the belief that every young person deserves a safe, supportive, and empowering environment. This decision stands in stark contrast to those values.

In 2017, Girl guiding took a proud and principled stance by explicitly welcoming transgender girls, affirming that any young person who self-identifies as a girl would be embraced. That policy sent a powerful message: that Girl guiding was a place where identity would be respected and belonging was unconditional. Reversing that commitment is not only disheartening but harmful.

As queer members and allies, we recognize how vital inclusive spaces like Girl guiding are. These spaces are more than activities; they are lifelines where young people build confidence, form friendships, and feel truly seen. For many LGBT+ young people, such environments are rare and essential. Excluding trans girls does not solve a problem—it creates one. As TransActual has stated, “there is no problem being solved here, just damage being done.”

While this policy change may be rooted in legal advice following the Supreme Court ruling in For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers, legality does not always equate to morality. Girl guiding has previously shown leadership by going beyond legal minimums to foster genuine inclusion. This moment calls for that same courage.

The inconsistency within the policy is also deeply concerning. Trans boys—those assigned female at birth but identifying as boys—remain eligible for membership, while trans girls are excluded. This raises serious questions about fairness, identity, and the organisation’s core purpose.

Most importantly, this decision sends a harmful message to trans girls: that they do not belong in a space that once promised them safety, joy, and acceptance. The impact of that message will be real and deeply felt.

We call on Girl guiding UK to:

• Reconsider and reverse the current membership policy excluding trans girls
• Engage meaningfully with members, volunteers, and affected communities
• Uphold its longstanding commitment to inclusion, respect, and empowerment for all girls.

Inclusion should not be conditional, nor should it be abandoned when it becomes challenging. Girl guiding has the opportunity to lead with compassion and integrity. We urge the organisation to do so.

Signatories:

lily-rose biggs