LONDON — A nurse's claim of discrimination against the Royal College of Nursing regarding her beliefs on biological sex and gender was dismissed by an employment tribunal, officials said.
Sandie Peggie alleged the RCN had failed to adequately support her during a dispute with NHS Fife and Dr Beth Upton, a transgender woman. The tribunal ruled against Peggie on multiple counts, including discrimination and victimisation, though she had partially succeeded in a harassment claim against NHS Fife last December.
The dispute centered on Peggie's objection to sharing a changing room with Dr Upton at Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy. The conflict escalated, resulting in Peggie's suspension in January 2024. This was the second employment tribunal brought by Peggie over the dispute with Dr Upton.
Peggie holds what are described as gender-critical or sex-realist beliefs that people are born male or female and cannot change sex. The RCN disputed the claim, arguing it had acted reasonably throughout the process. The union said it welcomed the tribunal's decision and would support all of its members.
A spokesperson for Peggie said legal representatives were considering the judgement before recommending any further legal steps available to her.
The case highlights the tensions surrounding gender identity and biological sex beliefs within the NHS and the legal processes for resolving workplace disputes.
