#IStandWithSandiePeggie: Nurse Sandie Peggie speaks out amid NHS Fife women’s changing room scandal

Nurse Sandie Peggie has publicly spoken out for the first time since the start of her high-profile employment tribunal against NHS Fife.

Peggie was suspended following an incident in a female changing room at Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, a town on the east coast of Scotland. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, centers around Peggie’s objections to sharing the changing facilities with Dr. Beth Upton, a transgender woman. Peggie has accused the health board of unlawful harassment under the Equality Act, claiming that the situation violates her rights.

The incident occurred on Christmas Eve 2023 when Peggie claims she became "distressed" after Dr. Upton undressed in front of her. Peggie, who has worked at the hospital for over 30 years, argues that Dr. Upton, despite identifying as a woman, should not have been allowed to use the female changing room due to her biological sex. Dr. Upton, in turn, accused Peggie of bullying and harassment, leading to the nurse’s suspension in January 2024.

The tribunal heard that clinical nurse manager Esther Davidson initially led an investigation after Dr. Upton filed a complaint. However, Davidson was removed from the case when it was discovered that she might be a key witness. The investigation was restarted after Davidson, who had worked with Peggie for three decades, sought advice and confirmed that Dr. Upton had the right to use the female facilities under NHS Fife’s equality and diversity policy.

In a statement shared on social media by Peggie’s daughter, Nicole, Sandie expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the support she has received throughout the tribunal. Sandie also revealed that a crowdfunding campaign for her legal costs had raised over £11,000 from nearly 2,000 contributors. Peggie thanked the public for their generosity, stating that the funds would be donated to charity.

Nicole also expressed frustration on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing Peggie’s colleagues for not speaking out in support of her. She wrote, “My mum has been alone in this for 14 months! Fake colleagues telling her they agree and not speaking up!! Totally let down by them. Luckily she has a strong family who stood by her side.”

Meanwhile, Peggie has found widespread backing online, with the hashtag #IStandWithSandiePeggie trending on social media. Many users are voicing their support for Peggie, calling attention to the issues at the heart of the case and showing solidarity with the veteran nurse.