Butlin’s issues apology following alleged transphobic security incident at Bang Face

Security staff at Butlin’s Skegness have been accused of forcibly removing trans people from the holiday resort’s women’s bathrooms during this year’s Bang Face Weekender.

Writing on Instagram this past weekend, attendee Jae Roberts alleged that members of security “dragged five trans people out of the women’s toilets”. Other people who tried to intervene were then “slammed against a wall and dragged down stairs for intervening”, Roberts added, with the security further accused of escalating the matter “without any physical provocation”.

Roberts told Mixmag that members of the holiday resort’s security team “lifted [her] from the ground, dragged [her] down a flight of stairs and chucked [her] out the door”. She also alleged that one woman had a wig pulled from her head.

Responding to the matter, Butlin’s Skegness highlighted that the security on site were third-party contractors, and said it was currently investigating the reports. A spokesperson expressed regret over the situation.

“As an inclusive business, we’re very concerned to hear about this incident,” the spokesperson said. “Much to our disappointment, our third-party security contractor didn’t follow our processes despite being thoroughly briefed. Once we were made aware they were immediately removed from duty. We’re in direct contact with those involved and carrying out an investigation which includes reviewing how we work with contractors.”

A spokesperson for Bang Face also expressed similar disappointment and told Resident Advisor: “After what was an overwhelmingly positive weekend during an incredibly difficult year, we were greatly saddened to hear of the incident involving Butlin’s’ third party security company. We’ve been working with those involved, friends in the trans community and Butlin’s to assist with positive change.

“Bang Face has always been a safe space for ravers and a place to express individuality and creativity. One day, we hope the rest of the world will catch up with the inclusion that has always been part of the rave scene.”

Roberts has since taken to Instagram to say she has had “fairly productive” meetings with both Bang Face management and the head of Butlin’s Skegness’ security team.

This year’s Bang Face Weekender was the first to take place at Butlin’s Skegness after it left its previous home of Pontins Southport, which closed down this year.