08/04/2024
Lots of LGBTQIA+ people, as well as those from other minorities, are often failed by the NHS, an increasing body of evidence suggests. Now, in what newswire Pink News says is a "new blow" to supportive treatment of transgender youth, NHS England has announced a new moratorium on the prescription of puberty blocking medication to those under eighteen. Mermaids, which represents Trans Youth and their families, explained more, in a statement which read in part: "This announcement is deeply disappointing, and a further restriction of support offered to trans children and young people through the NHS, which is failing trans youth. There were virtually no first appointments offered in 2023, with ever-growing waiting lists of over five years. Those currently prescribed puberty blockers won’t see any changes to their treatment, and this is a pause on prescribing – not a ban. It’s also important to note that puberty blockers can be just one possible part of a young person’s gender journey. However, this news still comes as a blow and will deeply affect our communities". The charity added "If you need support, please contact our helpline on 0808 801 0400. We are here for you." Pink News added that contrary to moral panic stories in the tabloid right wing newspapers, puberty blockers do not stop the development of an adolescent, but defer the development until they can be sure of their gender identity. They also have a profoundly positive psychological effect on trans youth, research suggests.
