Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
As Minister with responsibility for Equality, I am determined to address inequalities for transgender people and am pleased to launch the Welsh Government’s Transgender Action Plan.
Last summer I launched a consultation on the Welsh Government’s proposed actions to advance transgender equality in Wales. I hosted a focus group with young trans people where I heard first hand the priorities they want to see the Welsh Government address. Through the consultation and the focus groups Welsh Government officials have attended, trans individuals and organisations have informed our understanding of the issues affecting them on a day to day basis, and have influenced and shaped the resulting Action Plan.
I would like to thank the members of the trans community who took part in our consultation, whether through their written responses or taking part in conversations in the focus groups. Their insight and input has been invaluable in the formulation of this Action Plan.
The Transgender Action Plan will be the vehicle to drive forward cross-Government actions to tackle barriers to equality for trans people. It consists of identifiable and concrete actions with the intention of making specific improvements to the lives of trans people.
These include actions specifically aimed at improving equality for trans children and young people. We will tackle bullying and raise awareness of trans issues amongst those working with young people.
We will address areas of concern within our communities such as tackling transphobic hate crimes, violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence and will work with Sport Wales to look at ways to remove barriers preventing trans people taking part in sports.
We will tackle barriers to equality in our Health and Housing Services. We will develop and implement an NHS Wales Strategy for Wales, which will include a care pathway and guidance for healthcare practitioners, to be progressed as a priority.
Business Wales will place guidance on the Business Wales website which will help employers support transgender individuals in the workplace.
I am absolutely committed to ensuring barriers to trans equality are removed. I want this Action Plan to be a living document which can develop further as we continue to work with the trans community.