Girlguiding Chief Advocates for Girl-Only Spaces Amid Transgender Policy Shift
Tracy Foster OBE, the chief guide at Girlguiding UK, has publicly stated that "we need to advocate for girl-only space" during an investiture ceremony held at Windsor Castle. This declaration comes in the wake of the youth organisation's recent announcement that transgender girls must depart from the group by September of this year.
Policy Change Driven by Legal Requirements
Speaking to the Press Association about the challenges confronting women in 2026, Foster elaborated on the necessity of advocating for girls and young women. She highlighted that misogyny remains prevalent and underscored the importance of safe, exclusive spaces for females of all ages. The policy adjustment follows the UK Supreme Court's ruling in April 2025, which established that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex, thereby influencing access to single-sex services and spaces.
While Foster declined to express personal agreement with the court's decision, she clarified that the change in Girlguiding policy is a legal imperative. "We have to be lawful and the Supreme Court made that decision," she explained, adding that the organisation is navigating this transition with kindness and care for its members.
Organisational Response and Member Support
Described by Girlguiding as a "difficult decision," the policy shift was implemented nearly eight months after the Supreme Court ruling. The organisation conducted extensive deliberations, sought expert legal advice, and gathered input from senior members, young participants, its council, and board of trustees. According to the organisation's website, current transgender members are permitted to remain with Girlguiding until September 6.
Foster, who was honoured as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire by the Princess Royal for her services to Girlguiding, reflected on the evolving challenges faced by today's youth. She noted that the digital and cyber world introduces pressures that were absent during her own upbringing, making it particularly challenging for girls and young women.
Broader Societal Context and Future Guidance
Foster, with four decades of volunteer experience supporting girls and young women, also referenced watching Louis Theroux's documentary Inside The Manosphere, which explores ultra-masculine networks. She emphasised the need to provide strong, safe messages about gender and sexuality, advocating for inclusivity across society.
This development coincides with the anticipated publication of long-awaited guidance on single-sex spaces next month. The updated code of practice, designed to assist businesses and organisations in providing single and separate-sex services such as toilets and changing rooms, will undergo parliamentary scrutiny before implementation. A draft version was submitted to ministers by the Equality and Human Rights Commission last September, described as "legally sound," though minor adjustments have been made following government feedback.
