Emily’s parents decided to be honest with their daughter about the situation, and explained to her that she was no longer able to take part in Rainbows because she was trans. A few hours later, Curt said they found her “sobbing in her room” and were “shocked” to find her holding a pair of plastic scissors to her penis.

“When I asked why she had done that, she said that if it wasn’t there, then she’d be allowed to join in,” Curt said. Emily’s friends have since left Rainbows in solidarity because of her exclusion and an adult volunteer at her local group also resigned.

😔

A spokesperson for Girlguiding said: “Girlguiding exists to empower girls and young women, and help create a more equal world. Our values and beliefs have not changed. We remain committed to standing up for the rights, safety and dignity of girls and women, and to supporting marginalised communities, including LGBTQ+ people, to improve the lives of girls.”

They were fine to let trans girls in, as long as no one spoke against it. They received one angry letter, then threw us away.

They support us, as long as we stay on the other side of the glass. Shame upon them. Turning away children looking for belonging and friendship. Shame.