CSP champions LGBT+ workplace rights and representation

Health tribunal cases 

CSP members highlighted cases of health workers being targeted based on campaigns against their gender identity. These attacks have harmed the safety and dignity of both them and their allies who are seeking to safeguard working conditions. 

Shannon Pinnington, a specialist neurological physiotherapist at Northern Care Alliance and member of the CSP LGBTQIA+ Network leadership committee, delivered a speech on the CSP’s motion on health tribunal cases. 

Shannon said: ‘We must ask ourselves: what does it mean for a worker when simply existing at work becomes a matter of public debate?

'What does it mean when people fear that using a changing room, introducing themselves to colleagues, or standing up for an inclusive workplace could lead to national scrutiny?’ 

The CSP called on the TUC to: 

• Organise a special meeting of all health unions to understand clearly how the legislation relates to policies in the health sector.
• Campaign to organise protections so that trans workers and their allies are not forced out of the workplace by public pressure from the media. 

Conference passed this motion. 

• Read the CSP’s position statement on transphobia and our resources on transgender equality and discrimination. 

Speaking in support of sister unions 

The CSP delegation also delivered speeches in support of the following motions by sister unions:   

• Defending LGBT+ representation in our workplaces (motion 3) by PCS
• Reform of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (motion 4) by the Musicians’ Union
• Improving Uptake of Sexual Health Vaccinations (motion 9) by FDA
• Ending Delays in Access to Trans Healthcare Across the UK and Ireland (motion 12) by Unite 

Reflections from conference

Reflecting on the conference, Emma Powson, a Band 5 physiotherapist at Swansea Bay University Health Board, said: ‘Attending TUC LGBT+ conference was an inspiring and empowering event bringing individuals from different unions together. 

'It provided an opportunity to learn from others, share experiences, and strengthen my own commitment to equality, inclusion and trade union activism.’ 

Shannon added: ‘I always come away from queer events feeling a strong sense of community and empowerment, and TUC LGBT+ Workers Conference is no different. 

'Unionisation is a privilege that I will never take for granted, and to be and speak in a room filled with other LGBTQIA+ activists all fighting for our own and each other’s rights is such a powerful experience. I can’t wait to go back next year.’ 

Get involved in the CSP LGBTQIA+ network 

The LGBTQIA+ network supports and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual CSP members and is a lead contributor to physiotherapy's equality and diversity agenda. 

Whatever your skills or available time, there are several ways you can get involved with the network. 

• Get involved in the CSP LGBTQIA+ network.  

Attend a TUC Conference

If you’re interested in joining the CSP delegation at the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) Women's Conference on 21-22 Oct 2026 or other future TUC Conferences, contact Siân Caulfield, CSP's head of equity, diversity and belonging.