25k sign petition in trans row over Darlington hospital's 'inclusive changing rooms'

Thousands of people have signed a petition in support of a group of nurses from Darlington Memorial Hospital in an ongoing trans row.

The petition, started by religious organisation Christian Concern, has been signed by 25,000 people, and calls for leaders of political parties "ensure women have access to single-sex changing rooms and toilets".

This comes as signs have gone up in changing rooms around the hospital labelling them as "inclusive changing spaces" and asking staff not to remove them.

The row between nurses and Darlington Memorial Hospital leadership broke out earlier this year when a group of nurses wrote a letter to health chiefs unhappy that a trans woman was allowed to use the women's changing rooms.

Bethany Hutchison, Lisa Lockey, Annice Grundy, Tracey Hooper and Joanne Bradbury spoke out publicly last week as they believe the Trust is hoping controversy will "blow over".

The group claims they were told they needed to be ‘educated’ and ‘compromise’, and after releasing their story anonymously last month, the nurses say that changing room policy has not changed.

Wes Streeting, the Shadow Health secretary, has already said he is ‘horrified’ that a group of nurses in Darlington have been left feeling "threatened and intimidated" after launching a landmark employment tribunal case.

A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust said they understand that media coverage of the "complex issue" might have been "unsettling" for staff.

They said: "As a Trust, we are committed to providing safe and compassionate, inclusive and respectful care for our patients and visitors as well as an inclusive and respectful work environment for all colleagues.

"We would like to assure our patients and communities that the well-being and support of all colleagues involved in this, is of the utmost importance to us.

"At this stage the claims being made need to be fully investigated and reviewed. This work continues through our internal processes. Alternative arrangements and adjustments have been put in place.

Most read: 

• Darlington Memorial nurses speak publicly in trans legal battle

• Wes Streeting 'horrified' at Darlington Memorial Hospital trans row

• Durham and Darlington nurses launch legal battle in trans row

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

"We recognise that this is a hugely sensitive issue and as well as taking into consideration the feedback and concerns raised, we need to adhere to legal requirements and best practices.

"We are committed to working together with all parties to find a constructive solution that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and fairness.

"As this is now an active legal case, we hope you can understand that it is not appropriate for the Trust to share further detail at this stage."