Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Ministerial Statement by Baroness Berridge on 22 September (HLWS457), what plans they have to commission research on how to support children with gender identity issues.
The NHS has already started a series of long-term studies to better understand the outcomes of children and young people who are referred to gender identity services. NHS England are also currently reviewing the evidence base related to young people on the gender dysphoria pathway, including the evidence base that underpins the use and administration of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones.
Dr Hilary Cass, OBE, is leading an independent review into gender identity services for children and young people. This will examine the recent rise in the number of children seeking treatment and how care can be improved for children and young people. The review will report back with recommendations next year.