Day 5 concluded the witness evidence of the LGB Alliance (LGBA). Continuing with co-founder Kate Harris, the barrister for Mermaids questioned her on the articles of association of the LGBA, as well as her understanding of definitions surrounding same-sex attraction. 

Mermaids’ barrister then questioned her on the activities of the LGBA after the granting of their charitable status and the nature of their public communications. 

We then moved on to the witness evidence of Eileen Gallagher, the chair of the board of trustees of LGBA. This focused on the activities of LGBA, namely hosting their conference as well as other events and the setting up of support groups, webinars, newsletters and a helpline. 

It has now been decided that there will be an adjournment before the barristers will make their arguments on the law as they do not feel they have enough time to do that entirely within the next day as was timetabled. We expect this to be on November 7th for 2 days.

Notes to editors

1. Read the appeal grounds in full as filed here as well as the supporting documents, and skeleton argument.

2. Mermaids is a UK-wide charity (registered charity number 1160575) supporting transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse children, young people, their families and professionals involved in their care. Our goal is to create a world where gender-diverse children and young people can be themselves and thrive. Services include a helpline, web chat and online forums for parents and young people, as well as face-to-face meet-ups for peer support. We also provide training to organisations and advocate for a fairer society for trans young people.

3. The appeal is being supported by a number of leading organisations, including Good Law Project, the LGBT+ Consortium, LGBT Foundation, Gendered Intelligence and TransActual.

4. This appeal is being crowdfunded.

5. Any media enquiries should be directed to [email protected].