UPDATE: A Kent MP is sounding the alarm on children’s safety as urgent guidance for schools on handling gender-questioning pupils remains absent. Sevenoaks MP Laura Trott has addressed her concerns in a letter to Ofsted chief Sir Martyn Oliver, highlighting the critical need for immediate action from Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.
The Conservative MP criticized the “continuing lack of urgency” in releasing official government guidance, particularly since Labour has been in power since 2024. Trott emphasized that “children’s safety must come before bureaucratic delay,” stressing the pressing need for clear policies as schools grapple with sensitive situations.
Trott expressed that schools are forced to navigate complex issues without national direction, exacerbating the challenges they face. “There is immense pressure on schools, colleges, and children’s homes to socially transition children, regardless of parental wishes,” she warned, highlighting the risk of long-term psychological harm to vulnerable children.
The absence of guidance is leading to inconsistent practices across schools, creating a “patchwork of practice” with contrasting policies. Trott has urged Ofsted to recognize the “safeguarding implications” of this prolonged delay and to reinforce the importance of maintaining single-sex spaces for the safety of young people within educational institutions.
The situation has gained traction since the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) published new guidelines on the protection of single-sex spaces in April. At that time, Phillipson assured MPs that guidance for schools would be forthcoming this year; however, government sources now acknowledge that this deadline will likely be missed.
As pressure mounts on the Education Secretary, Trott’s call for immediate action reflects a growing concern among parents and educators alike. The lack of clarity on gender issues in schools poses real risks, and with each passing day, children are left vulnerable and unsupported.
What happens next? As the debate continues, all eyes are on the government to respond swiftly. Parents, educators, and advocates are urging for decisive action to ensure that children’s safety remains the top priority.
Stay tuned for more updates as this critical issue develops.
