Simon Blake, the freshly appointed CEO of Stonewall, isn’t tiptoeing into his new role—he’s stomping in stilettos-first and zeroing in on a full-blown ban on conversion practices in the UK. And he’s not interested in half-measures or backdoor exceptions. “It’s really important that a conversion practices bill covers all practices designed to try to change or correct somebody’s sexual or gender identity,” he said, setting the tone for what’s clearly going to be a no-nonsense tenure.
The Labour Party has pledged a “full trans-inclusive ban” in its manifesto, and with draft legislation expected soon, Blake says the heat is on. Stonewall is ready to put in the political elbow grease to ensure that none of the initial commitments are watered down. Blake, with sharp clarity, warned that opponents will likely try to minimize the scope of the issue. But the numbers are chilling: 17% of LGBTQ+ Britons report experiencing physical assault, 10% have been subjected to so-called “exorcisms,” and 12% were victims of “corrective rape” or sexual assault—all in the name of changing who they are.
Trans Rights Front and Center
Predictably, critics are squawking about parental rights and free speech, with some warning of “chilling effects” on healthcare professionals. But Blake’s not having it. “Of course parents will ask their children exploratory questions. What we are talking about here is conversion practices, which are saying ‘you are bad, you are wrong, you need to change,’” he explained. And he’s not letting medical professionals off the hook either, noting that countries with inclusive bans haven’t seen any of the so-called “harms” trotted out by naysayers.
Blake made it clear that Stonewall’s mission is broader than one bill. “We need to see the UK take its place back at the top of the global leaderboard for LGBTQ+ rights,” he said, acknowledging that the rise of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment worldwide—from Trump’s antics to Eastern European propaganda laws—makes this fight more urgent than ever.
Repairing Stonewall’s Reputation
Blake inherits Stonewall after a period of internal turmoil and external firestorms. The organization faced criticism over its trans-inclusive policies and a perceived unwillingness to engage in open debate. But he’s doubling down, not backing off. “It’s absolutely right that Stonewall became trans inclusive in 2015,” he stated, drawing a line in the sand.
Still, he’s not blind to the divides. Blake acknowledges the internal debates and the loud public discourse but says Stonewall is learning. He wants to amplify trans-led groups, work in partnerships, and have “endless conversations” rather than draw battle lines. “The problem with the current conversation is it’s about winning or losing, and that isn’t helpful,” he said. His goal? Real, messy dialogue that respects dignity while protecting rights.
What This Means for the LGBTQ+ Community
For the LGBTQ+ community, this marks a much-needed reset. A full ban on conversion practices—trans-inclusive, loophole-free, and enforced—would send a message far beyond the UK. It would affirm that queer lives are not experiments or problems to fix. It would reinforce that gender identity is not up for negotiation. Most of all, it would stand as a loud and proud declaration that dignity, safety, and authenticity are non-negotiable.
Stonewall’s new chapter, under Blake’s unapologetically bold leadership, is shaping up to be more than a policy shift—it’s a cultural rebuke of years of gaslighting, delay, and damage. And the LGBTQ+ community will be watching, heels planted and flags waving.