Rebekah Chapman, a 33-year-old gender-critical campaigner and designer, said she was ejected from the store after politely questioning why the employee was wearing what she described as an “intolerant and discriminatory” slogan.
The incident occurred on Monday as Chapman was shopping for art supplies.
Customer Claims Discrimination
Chapman said the badge a pink heart-shaped button was clearly visible on the staff member’s apron and could be interpreted as discriminating against people who hold gender-critical beliefs, which are recognised as a protected philosophical belief under UK equality law.
“Being gender-critical is a protected belief. It’s not acceptable to discriminate against someone for that,” Chapman said. “It’s like saying ‘no Christians’ or ‘no gays’. Can you imagine if a badge targeted another group that way?”
Chapman alleged that when she raised the issue, the staff member’s manager sided with the employee and told her to “read a biology book.”
Hobbycraft Responds With Investigation
After filing a formal complaint, Chapman received an email from Hobbycraft’s head of people, confirming that the retailer had launched an inquiry into the incident.
“We’re very sorry to hear about your experience,” the company said. “We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for colleagues and customers alike. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness.”
Hobbycraft added that it does not condone the actions of the employees involved and that “appropriate action will be taken” pending the outcome of the investigation.
Debate Over Political Symbols at Work
The controversy adds to a growing debate about political messaging in the workplace. In recent years, several UK employers have faced backlash over staff wearing politically charged symbols or slogans while on duty.
In 2023, NHS staff in London were criticised for wearing pro-Palestine messages while treating Jewish patients, sparking calls for clearer policies on neutrality in public-facing roles.
Gender-Critical Campaigners React
Maya Forstater, chief executive of the gender-critical charity Sex Matters, said the incident highlights a lack of understanding among some employers about discrimination laws protecting belief and political opinion.
“A badge saying ‘no Terfs, no Tories’ would clearly discriminate against customers with those beliefs,” Forstater said. “Many companies have allowed activist training to turn into intolerance of ordinary people’s views. Hobbycraft must ensure its staff understand equality law and respect all customers.”
Retailer Issues Apology
In a follow-up statement, Hobbycraft said:
“We are aware of the incident and are taking the matter seriously. We’re sorry that the customer was asked to leave the store, have apologised, and launched an immediate internal investigation. We remain in contact with the customer throughout this process.”
