Glasgow Rape Support Centre splits from Rape Crisis Scotland charity over gender disagreement
By Jess McHugh
Woman looking glum. Photographed by Eric Ward
Both Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis centres have stated that it’s a priority to have a single-sex working space for clients which reported by the BBC, was “at odds” with the charity’s preferences.
Rape Crisis Scotland (RCS) had also faced controversy over the recent actions from the Edinburgh branch. The local chief executive of the Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre, Mridul Wadhwa, a trans woman resigned after her leadership was branded not fit for purpose by some politicians.
It was revealed that the local chief executive had failed to act professionally and understand the limits of her authority. A recent review showed the branch guilty of failing to provide women-only spaces for 16 months. The chief executive of RCS, Sandy Brindley, has apologised for this and made clear that all centres should provide single-sex spaces. She also said that there’s no reason people who identify as transgender should not be included in this.
The decision made by the Rape Centre in Glasgow to separate from the RCS charity is a large change.
A spokesperson from the board said: “After careful consideration, we have concluded that the interests of our organisation, and those that rely on our services, will be best served, and represented out with a membership of RCS.
“Women have consistently told us, that single-sex services delivered by an all-female workforce are crucial to help them heal from sexual trauma. This approach remains our priority but is at odds with RCS.”
Women coming together. Photographed by Shane Rounce
Single-sex working spaces are a huge priority for some. The Equality Act allows for the provision of separate or single-sex services under certain circumstances relating to sex. This act exists for many of reasons such as privacy, decency and to prevent trauma as much as possible while prioritising people and victims’ mental and physical wellbeing. A separate sex service is provided to both sexes just in separate ways.
Single-sex services are especially important as women-only spaces provide a safe space for people who at that time might not be able to communicate with a man due to experience of trauma. When it’s being decided whether it is right to use this service there are many things to take into consideration, however everyone has a right to feel safe, especially after going through a difficult experience.