The EHRC has released their draft new code of practice. This is slightly better than the last one that came out, but still horrifying in scope and impact on our community.
The Good Law Project have put an explainer here which is good: https://goodlawproject.org/the-code-of-practice-what-you-need-to-know/
This is obviously still a draft and needs to go through Government and Parliament first, however this may not stop some organisations/companies panicking and implementing a crackdown now, especially on bathrooms/changing rooms, like they did last time.
TAWC are discussing as a Steering Group how we can influence businesses, charities, and public services locally using connections we already have, and are hoping to have more on this soon.
Our first priority though is to support this community. Therefore we are doing multiple things. Firstly, we will be holding a vc drop-in service on Saturday afternoon and evening for anyone who wants to chat/seek support. Second, next Tuesday's social meeting will run a little longer. It will start at 6.15pm instead and start as a social, before transitioning into a support group from 7.45 onwards, so we can have the best of both for anyone who needs it.
We are also reaching out to other organisations (Queer Cumbria, OutREACH, PINC, Always Another Way) and seeing how we can work in partnership with them to ensure more support, no matter where people live.
This is an extremely tough time for us and will continue to be so. There is no sugarcoating that. It is ok for it to feel scary and bad. But we are a united community that will support each other and uplift each other even through this. I give you all my personal commitment that TAWC is here for you, is safe for you, and wants you here as your incredible selves. Thank you.
ER (they/them)
Founder and Chief Executive
Trans Action West Cumbria
Trans Action West Cumbria (TAWC – pronounced “Talk”) is an organisation dedicated to supporting the Transgender community in West Cumbria. Through social events, advocacy and support, and community outreach – our mission is to uplift the Trans community.
Trans Action West Cumbria exists to take action – because Trans lives matter, and support shouldn’t depend on geography.
In communities outside of cities, Trans people often face isolation, systemic barriers, and a lack of gender-affirming resources. We’re here to change that.
We intend to provide peer mentoring, social groups, advocacy, and essential resources like gender-affirming clothing and other products, support with legal documentation, and more. Our work goes beyond support. We want to actively challenge misconceptions through education and outreach, ensuring local businesses, schools, and public services truly understand trans perspectives.
This is more than an organisation. It’s a movement. A commitment to ensuring every Trans person in West Cumbria has access to solidarity, visibility, and tangible support. We are here, and we are taking action – for trans lives, for trans futures.
What We Do
We run a fortnightly Peer Support Group, facilitated by and for Trans people. It is not a counselling or therapy service as there are no mental health practitioners or group leaders involved. The aim of the group is self-help while at the same time supporting each other.
Fortnightly social events including coffee socials, board game nights, and more – a chance to connect with your community in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Support navigating legal documentation changes, healthcare pathways, and accessing the services you need – with people who understand the challenges first-hand.
Regular events and drop-ins providing essential gender-affirming resources such as binders, clothes swaps, low-cost haircuts, and more. We also signpost to a range of other nationwide services for Trans people, ensuring that you can access the help you need, even if we can’t provide it ourselves.
Workshops and partnerships with businesses, schools, and charities to educate allies and create a more understanding, inclusive society.