Warning on gender support for children

Campaigners have warned that the NHS is taking too long to provide support as new figures reveal record numbers of children being referred for gender identity services.

According to figures in the Scottish Public Health Network report, young people being referred to the NHS for specialist help, which can include drugs to delay puberty, increased by 21 per cent in 2017, up to 222 from 183.

Campaigners say long waiting times are causing distress among young Scots suffering gender dysphoria, which can leave youngsters feeling trapped in the wrong body.

The latest research also revealed children are seeking help from a younger age with some referrals for children as young as six. The NHS said that eight out of ten young people will “grow out of” it as they get older.

James Morton, of the Scottish Trans Alliance, said, “Increase in demand for gender identity services up to 2017 has resulted in very long waiting times. It’s not acceptable that trans people have to wait longer than 44 weeks for a first appointment.”

Meanwhile, the Christian Institute blasted the Scottish Government for claiming its endorsement of school guidance published on transgender issues was an error.