Butlin’s has faced backlash after security guards forcibly removed transgender women from the women’s lavatories at a music festival held at its Skegness camp. The seaside resort company responded by suspending the security staff involved and reaffirming its stance as an inclusive business. However, critics, including author JK Rowling, have questioned the company’s policy on women-only spaces.
Incident at Butlin’s Skegness
On October 5, during the Bang Face music event at Butlin’s Skegness, five transgender women were forcibly ejected from the women’s toilets by security staff. Jae Roberts, one of the women involved, shared the details of the incident on social media, stating that security personnel escalated the situation unnecessarily.
According to Roberts, a security guard initially followed one of the transgender women, who had facial hair, into the toilets and demanded she leave, identifying her as a man. After protests from others present, the guard returned with 10 colleagues, resulting in a physical confrontation.
Roberts recounted: “Butlin’s security just dragged five trans people out of the women’s toilets. I was personally dragged down a flight of stairs by two security guards.”
Does Butlins think the desire of cross-dressing men to enter women-only spaces is more important than women's and girls' right to privacy and dignity? Hopefully Butlins will explain their policy, so women and families can make an informed choice about where to go on holiday. https://t.co/xEkaJhrAUe
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 10, 2024
Butlin’s Response
Following the incident, Butlin’s removed the two security guards responsible from their duties. A spokesperson for the company said: “As an inclusive business, we were very concerned about this situation. The security staff involved did not follow our procedures and were immediately removed from festival duty. We are in direct contact with those affected and are conducting a full investigation.”
Criticism of Butlin’s Stance
Despite Butlin’s swift response, some online commentators, including JK Rowling, expressed concerns about the company’s position on single-sex spaces. They urged Butlin’s to clarify its policy on women-only facilities, citing the need to protect the rights and safety of all women, including transgender individuals.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Butlin’s is reviewing its security protocols to ensure future incidents are handled in accordance with its inclusive values. The company aims to strike a balance between safety, inclusivity, and respect for all guests, regardless of gender identity.
