Statement of the Bench of Bishops of the Church in Wales on the publication of the EHRC Draft Code of Practice

The publication of the EHRC's Draft Code of Practice has caused fresh pain and anxiety to many trans people. We want to respond clearly.

A year ago, following the Supreme Court's ruling, we said that every human being is a precious child of God, deserving of dignity and respect. We say so again today - without qualification.

The Code tells organisations what the law permits. It does not tell us who we are as the Body of Christ. We are not called to the legal minimum of hospitality. We are called to the radical welcome of the one who sought out the excluded and the overlooked. The Church in Wales will not use equality law exemptions to exclude trans people from our worship, our sacraments, our pastoral care, or our common life.

We ask all our churches to be places of genuine sanctuary for trans people and their families, especially now. And we call on public bodies to pursue a way forward that upholds the dignity of all, rather than treating the protection of some rights as justification for eroding others.

To trans people in Wales, in our congregations and who serve God faithfully in the Church: you are known. You are loved. You are welcome here, as you are, always.

The Bench of Bishops of the Church in Wales

The Most Reverend. Cherry Vann, Bishop of Monmouth, Archbishop of Wales

The Right Reverend. Gregory Cameron, Bishop of St Asaph;

The Right Reverend. John Lomas, Bishop of Swansea and Brecon;

The Right Reverend. Mary Stallard, Bishop of Llandaff;

The Right Reverend. Dorrien Davies, Bishop of St Davids;

We affirm that every trans person is a precious child of God, and a beloved part of the life of this Church.