By Jenna Taylor and Sophie Molly
In the wake of Brexit, the United Kingdom’s political landscape has shifted, creating openings for new voices on the right. Among these is Reform UK, which has quickly gained traction and raised concerns about its potential stances on social issues—particularly transgender rights. Many trans advocates fear that a politically empowered Reform UK could push legislation or rhetoric that erodes existing protections. Compounding these concerns is the role of legacy media, which, according to critics, often normalizes or “sanewashes” far-right populist ideologies. This media landscape can alter public perception of transgender issues and the party’s overall popularity.
This article examines how trans rights could be affected by Reform UK’s growing influence and explores how established media outlets may sway public sentiment—either in favor of or against these developments.
The Rise of Reform UK
From the Brexit Party to Reform UK
Reform UK traces its roots back to the Brexit Party, initially led by Nigel Farage. Although it has rebranded and broadened its scope beyond Brexit, many of the party’s leaders and supporters retain a populist bent and express skepticism toward so-called “woke” culture. These ideological threads suggest a broader conservative agenda, one that could include rolling back or obstructing trans-inclusive policies.
Populist and “Anti-Woke” Rhetoric
Much like MAGA Republicans in the United States, Reform UK appeals to voters who feel alienated by what they perceive as an overreach of political correctness. While the party does not have an extensive policy platform explicitly targeting LGBTQ+ issues, its leaders have frequently made statements that disparage trans people, potentially exacerbating the stigma they already face. As the party’s influence grows, it could intensify the cultural pushback against trans rights and visibility.
Potential Impacts on Trans Rights
- Legal Protections and Gender Recognition: Trans advocates have long campaigned for reforms to the Gender Recognition Act (GRA), aiming to streamline the process for obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate. Far-right populist factions often frame these reforms as ideologically driven or harmful. A strengthened Reform UK might block, delay, or reverse progress on GRA updates, making it more difficult for trans people to secure legal recognition of their identities. Additionally, critics worry that the Equality Act 2010, which provides key anti-discrimination protections, could be undermined if Reform UK adopts a more hardline stance.
- Access to Healthcare: The NHS already faces significant challenges in providing timely gender-affirming care, with wait times reportedly extending up to seven years in some cases. A government focused on cost-cutting or casting doubt on the legitimacy of trans healthcare could deprioritize these services even further. In the worst-case scenario, Reform UK might advocate for policies that sharply restrict gender-affirming care—especially for minors—thereby intensifying healthcare inequities for trans people.
- Cultural Climate and Public Discourse: Should Reform UK gain prominence, its “anti-woke” agenda could legitimize or normalize negative portrayals of trans identities. This shift might embolden transphobic individuals and groups, leading to spikes in hate speech and even violence. Social psychology research suggests that when influential figures openly question the rights or legitimacy of marginalized communities, incidents of harassment and aggression tend to increase.
The Role of Legacy Media
- Amplification of Populist Messaging: One key factor in Reform UK’s growing profile is the disproportionate coverage it receives from legacy media—major newspapers, television stations, and talk-radio shows. These outlets often feature sensational headlines about “gender ideology,” trans youth healthcare, or trans participation in sports. By focusing heavily on controversial or inflammatory aspects, media coverage can stoke public alarm and overshadow the day-to-day realities of trans people.
- Shifting Public Sentiment: Whether intentionally or not, mainstream media can reshape public perceptions of trans issues through persistent coverage of so-called “culture war” topics. When trans rights are framed primarily as part of a political or cultural conflict rather than as fundamental human rights, the general public may become desensitized to the real-world implications for trans individuals. While some journalists highlight trans voices to counter alarmist narratives, these efforts are frequently overshadowed by the more “newsworthy” controversies promoted by populist politicians.
- The Power of Endorsements and Editorial Stances: Endorsements from established outlets can lend legitimacy to parties that might otherwise remain on the fringe. Even critical coverage may inadvertently boost Reform UK’s visibility and sympathy from the public. As the party’s leaders increasingly appear on prominent talk shows or in high-profile interviews, the resulting familiarity often translates into electoral support.
Fear and Trepidation In The Queer Community
The fear in the UK queer community is growing. Many have expressed deep concern. Concern that LGBTIQIA + rights will be reversed or completely removed if Reform UK are elected as government in the 2029 UK General Election. Claire’s Trans Talks said it would be ‘The End’. I can only assume this means the end of queer rights. Several other queer people have shared these feelings with us. Jennifer (She/Her) believes the party would remove “any legal protections” for trans people and impose “healthcare bans”. She went on to say “I wouldn’t put it past them to try and make the GRC register public.” Isobel Gray (She/Her) says “it will be time to flee”. Harrowing words indeed. Isobel is not alone. Tendez, thinks trans people would “flee and seek refugee status elsewhere.”
Terror And Lynch Mobs
Some people we interviewed even expressed fears of violence against the queer community. Gloria Preston (She/Her) predicts that there will be queer “Lynch mobs” while Vansen predicts “death squads. Systemic extermination coupled with public exhibition and humiliation.” Former Gender GP counsellor Marianne Oakes (She/Her) calls Reform UK “a populist party/business who have links to far-right groups. She says “ It’s leader Nigel Farage care liitle for minorities and was instrumental in the summer riots in 2024. Given the media onslaught against trans women over recent years, the idea of Reform UK gaining any power in government is a terrifying prospect.”
Possible Scenarios Moving Forward
- Reform UK Gains Parliamentary Influence: If Reform UK secures additional MPs or enters a governing coalition, it could push policies that curtail trans rights in healthcare, education, and legal recognition. Such moves would likely face legal challenges and spark public protests, but the resulting policy battles could be contentious. Recent polling even suggests that Reform UK could, in certain scenarios, challenge Labour’s hold on Parliament.
- Media Continues to Spotlight the “Culture War”: Legacy media may further emphasize trans issues as a wedge topic, polarizing public opinion. High-profile debates and eye-catching headlines could overshadow nuanced policy discussions and marginalize trans voices in the process.
- Increased Visibility for Trans Advocates: While the environment may be adversarial, it also offers trans advocates a platform to address misinformation and share facts about trans healthcare and legal protections. Effective advocacy could shift public attitudes, garnering broader support for trans rights and countering harmful narratives.
Call to Action
- Stay Informed and Engaged
- Consult reliable news sources and read beyond the headlines. Delve into policy proposals to fully understand how parties like Reform UK might affect trans rights.
- Attend community forums, local meetings, and online webinars to remain current on policy developments.
- Support Trans-Led Organizations
- Donate to or volunteer with grassroots and established charities championing trans equality, such as Stonewall, Gendered Intelligence, Mermaids, or local LGBTQ+ networks.
- Elevate trans voices—activists, writers, and researchers—on social media and in personal conversations.
- Hold Media Outlets Accountable
- Write letters to editors or comment on articles if you notice misleading or inflammatory coverage. Request corrections or clarifications.
- Subscribe to outlets that provide nuanced, evidence-based reporting on trans issues, encouraging fairer coverage throughout the media ecosystem.
- Lobby Your Representatives
- Contact MPs, local councillors, or other elected officials to voice your concerns about any rollback of trans rights. Urge them to defend trans-inclusive legislation and protect access to gender-affirming healthcare.
- Share personal stories (with consent) to illustrate the tangible impact of policy changes on trans people.
- Build Community Solidarity
- Attend or organize community events, rallies, or workshops to strengthen networks between allies and trans communities. Collective action often shifts public opinion and influences policy.
- Engage respectfully in conversations, using fact-based information to dispel myths and reduce stigma around trans issues.
By taking these steps, concerned citizens can help foster a political and media landscape in which trans rights are safeguarded and expanded, rather than undermined.
Conclusion
The ascent of Reform UK poses significant questions about the future of trans rights in Britain. Although the party has yet to establish a long track record on LGBTQ+ policy, its leadership’s “anti-woke” rhetoric indicates a potential rollback of existing protections and an uptick in hostility toward trans people. Meanwhile, legacy media’s often sensational coverage can further inflame public debate or, conversely, offer a platform for more balanced dialogue—depending on editorial choices and framing.
For trans advocates and allies, vigilance is vital. Keeping an eye on emerging policy proposals, engaging in transparent discourse, and challenging misleading media narratives are essential to preserving hard-won gains. Equally important is holding news outlets to a higher standard of accountability and insisting on coverage that respects human dignity, relies on evidence-based reporting, and maintains a principled commitment to equality.
Author’s Note
This article provides a wide-ranging overview rather than a definitive forecast. The UK’s political landscape and media ecosystem remain highly fluid, and future developments could shift the balance in unexpected ways. Nevertheless, the coming months and years will undoubtedly be crucial both for Reform UK and for the transgender community—making it all the more imperative for readers to remain informed, question media narratives, and participate actively in the democratic process.
About the Authors
Jenna Taylor and Sophie Molly bring a wealth of experience and passion to their advocacy for transgender rights and healthcare equity.
Jenna Taylor holds degrees in Women’s Studies and Political Science and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA). As an intersectional trans feminist, Jenna’s work focuses on dismantling systemic barriers and advocating for gender justice. With a background as a political strategist and a sexual assault victim advocate, she brings a unique perspective to issues affecting marginalized communities.
Sophie Molly is a dedicated political activist and intersectional feminist committed to advancing policies that promote inclusivity and equality. Sophie’s work emphasizes the importance of recognizing interconnected forms of oppression and advocating for comprehensive solutions that benefit all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
Together, Jenna and Sophie are powerful voices for change, using their platforms to highlight injustices and call for action in support of transgender healthcare and human rights. Follow their insights and advocacy through the links in their names.
