Equalities Minister Raises Concerns

A charity is urging teachers to wear transgender badges and display the LGBT rainbow flag in their classrooms. This comes amidst concerns raised by Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch about an 'epidemic' of children being told they are transgender in schools.

Controversial Lesson Plans

The charity's online course on "gender diversity" includes a module that suggests allowing boys to use girls' toilets and vice versa if they identify as the opposite gender. Additionally, a lesson plan for 12-year-olds recommends using trans or non-binary celebrities as examples to explain concepts of sex and gender.

Claims of Inaccuracy and Irresponsibility

Tory MP Nick Fletcher has criticized the charity's materials, stating that they are likely to be in violation of the Education Act, which prohibits the promotion of partisan and contested ideologies in schools. He specifically called out the section on transitioning as "inaccurate and highly irresponsible." Lucy Marsh of the Family Education Trust also emphasized that schools should not be used as platforms for indoctrination.

Government Responds to Concerns

A Government spokesperson expressed deep concerns about the use of these materials in schools. They highlighted the need to address the issue and ensure that children are not being exposed to potentially misleading or harmful information.

Brook, the charity in question, defended its course by stating that it is informed by the lived experiences of young people. The charity received almost £7 million in funding from local authorities last year.