Trans and Gender Diverse Policy
The revised Bowls England Trans and Gender Diverse Policy is a revision of the 2021 policy, made in light of the 2025 Supreme Court ruling that the definition of sex in the equality act means biological (birth) sex.
The revised Bowls England Trans and Gender Diverse Policy reaffirms that bowls is a gender affected sport. It provides definitions and a framework to ensure fairness in competitive bowls through eligibility requirements based on birth sex. Inclusion is supported through open competitions and through the wide range of friendly and non-competitive formats that are common in the sport.
Bowls England is committed to promoting fairness, equality, diversity and inclusion in everything it does. We are committed to providing opportunities for trans people to play bowls and will not tolerate discrimination, victimisation or harassment on the basis of a person’s gender identity, gender expression or trans status.
This policy has been subject to discussion and consultation and was formally approved by the Bowls England Board in November 2025. It is effective from January 1st 2026 and applies to all forms of lawn bowls undertaken by Bowls England, affiliated counties and clubs, and associated leagues, competitions and tournaments.
Click below for the revised Trans and Gender Diverse Policy:
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