I’m resigning from Girl Guides after 10 years – the recent changes broke my heart

Amy Best-Rokins, a 32-year-old administrator from Barrow and a long-time volunteer with Girlguiding, has announced her resignation from the organization after 10 years. Her decision comes amid controversy surrounding recent policy changes that have sparked widespread concern among members. She formally resigns on 6 September, citing the organization's directive that trans girls and women must leave, a move she finds deeply distressing and contrary to the values she believed Girlguiding stood for. The changes, which include a redesigned uniform emphasizing “self-expression, belonging and confidence,” were developed in collaboration with nearly 55,000 members, ranging from young girls in Rainbows (ages 4-7) to older members in Rangers (ages 14-18). This marks the first major update to the uniform in over three decades. However, the policy shift has raised eyebrows, particularly following the announcement in March that trans girls and women would be required to leave the organization by September. This decision followed a Supreme Court ruling in December 2025, which clarified definitions under the Equality Act 2010, stating that girls and women are defined by their biological sex at birth. Girlguiding’s governing charity documents state that the organization serves girls and women exclusively. Despite this, Amy emphasizes that the inclusive nature of the organization was central to its identity. She recalls moments during her tenure that underscored this commitment, such as a hen do she attended with Brownies and Guides, where participants felt comfortable asking personal questions. These experiences highlight the sense of safety and acceptance that the organization once fostered. Amy notes that trans members have always been welcome within Girlguiding, and there have been no issues regarding their participation. Yet, the recent policy change has created a rift. Many members, both trans and non-trans, have expressed emotional distress over the decision. Amy believes the organization was advised by legal counsel that failure to implement the change could result in lawsuits, yet she doubts the original Girlguiding ethos, rooted in women’s rights, would have accepted such a transformation without resistance. For Amy, the requirement for trans members to leave is not just a policy change, it represents a betrayal of the core principles that guided the organization for decades. She describes the situation as “appalling” and stresses that it has caused her considerable anguish. To ensure her resignation is clearly linked to the policy shift rather than routine reasons, she has chosen to formalize it on 6 September. Amy’s journey with Girlguiding began at age 10, when she found solace in the organization during a difficult period at school. She recalls feeling different and often overlooked, especially in physical education classes. Girlguiding became a sanctuary where she discovered her voice and learned to embrace her true self. The support she received from leaders and peers played a crucial role in shaping her identity and instilling a sense of purpose. She contrasts the experience of Girlguiding with that of Scouts, noting that while Scouts offer valuable opportunities, they lack the unique environment that allows girls to express themselves freely. She points to instances where groups of girls become subdued upon encountering boys, highlighting how external attention can disrupt their engagement. For Amy, this underscores the importance of a dedicated space where girls can thrive without distraction. Her decision to resign reflects a broader sentiment among members who feel the organization has strayed from its founding ideals. As the situation unfolds, the impact of these changes on the community and the future direction of Girlguiding remains uncertain.