What does non-binary mean?
Gender is often referred to as ‘binary’, meaning two – man or woman. The term ‘non-binary’ refers to people who don’t think of themselves as either exclusively male or female. They may feel their gender is fluid and can change or fluctuate at different times in their lives, or perhaps they permanently don’t identify with one particular gender.
People who do not identify as either male or female (non-binary) are more likely to suffer abuse, violence and harassment and are more likely to be discriminated against in the workplace.
Many have been physically attacked and verbally abused in public places, including the workplace, leading many non-binary people to hide their identity.
Supporting non-binary people in the workplace
The TUC has launched an online learning module for reps and trade unions members on some simple steps we can all take to make workplaces safer and more accepting of non-binary members. It takes about 15 – 30 minutes to complete and you can access the course here.
All you need is an internet-enabled phone, computer or tablet. You don’t have to complete the course all in one go but do as little or as much as you like, as each time you log on your progress will always be saved.
Usdaw has also published a leaflet explaining ‘gender identity’ and how to support a trans member in the workplace.