• THE exit of high-profile employers from LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall’s diversity programme is because of concerns over the programme’s complexity and its emphasis on transgender rights, (Why we must speak up for Stonewall, February 24).

Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index and accompanying 9,000-word guidance state that people should be able to self-identify with the gender they choose.

This self-identification includes allowing male-bodied trans women to use female-only facilities (such as refuges, changing rooms and toilets) and compete in female sports.

The charity has been accused by workplace law experts of giving advice that misinterprets the Equality Act 2010, claiming it includes protection for “gender identity” (it doesn’t), and using its Diversity Champions scheme to push employers to adopt pro-trans policies that could negatively impact other groups.

Last year an independent report commissioned by the University of Essex found that Stonewall provided incorrect advice on transgender issues.

Stonewall and its supporters routinely accuse anyone who disagrees with them of transphobia and “demonisation”, which is unhelpful to organisations that are genuinely trying to increase equality.

It also does a great disservice to Stonewall’s proud history of campaigning for lesbian, gay and bisexual rights.

As a Camden resident, I’m proud that our borough champions diversity. I urge the council to join the growing number of employers (including the BBC, Channel 4 and education watchdog Ofsted) who have left Stonewall’s partisan programme, to ensure that Camden protects the rights of all workers and residents.

DEE SEARLE, NW5