The NHS is to close the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust gender identity clinic for children and young people by spring after it was criticised in an independent review.
The clinic will be replaced by new regional centres after an independent review, led by Dr Hilary Cass.
A spokesperson from the Royal College of Psychiatrists said:
“Current waiting times for children and young people seeking support from gender identity services are entirely unacceptable. Any action to reduce waiting times and bring these vital services closer to where patients live are welcome.
“It is important to recognise that gender dysphoria is not a mental health disorder, though psychiatrists may be asked to be involved in a patient’s care to help with co-occurring mental health problems. The College will continue to support psychiatrists in fully exploring their patient’s gender identity, involving their families where appropriate, in a non-judgmental, supportive, and ethical manner.
“While gender-affirming medical interventions improve wellbeing and mental health in transgender and gender diverse adults, more evidence is needed on the management of gender-diverse children, particularly those who have not gone through puberty. We welcome today’s announcements to strengthen research in this area to ensure children and young people can receive the best possible standard of care.”
For further information, please contact:
- Email: press@rcpsych.ac.uk
- Twitter: @rcpsych
- Out-of-hours contact number: 07860 755896