England Touch Association Participation Eligibility Policy Update

We have updated our Participation Eligibility Policy in light of a clarification of the law by the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of sex (April 2025).

We are committed to ensuring that Touch is open and accessible to everyone as far as is possible. Our core values of “Inclusive, Transparent, Ambitious, United and Respectful” remain at the heart of what we do and how we play. As the national governing body for Touch in England, we have a duty to ensure that competition is fair, safe and legally compliant

We acknowledge that this change will have a significant impact on several people within the Touch community. The policy is a live document, and we welcome comments from those involved in Touch and will regularly review the policy in light of these comments over the coming months.

This policy comes into force with immediate effect and players, coaches and referees should make themselves aware of the new policy. We will be releasing guidance notes for these three areas in the coming weeks to help clarify the impact of the new policy.

If you do have comments or queries, please email admin@englandtouch.org.uk