Gender Identity Development Service – legal update 26 March 2021

The High Court has today (26 March) ruled that parents can consent on behalf of their child for hormone-blocking treatment in cases of gender dysphoria.

You can view the full judgement here.

The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust leads the national Gender Identity and Development Service (GIDS). The puberty blocking drugs provided by the service are prescribed and administered by endocrinologists at UCLH and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Our statement in response to today’s ruling is as follows:

A UCLH spokesperson said: “We understand this has been an uncertain time for patients and families under the care of the Gender Identity and Development Service. We welcome the clarification of the legal position and are working with the Tavistock and Portman, and NHS England to understand the impact on the GID service.”

The Tavistock and Portman has published a statement and Q&A on the GIDS website.

If you are a patient or parent of GIDS with questions please call 07812 512 126. This number is for UCLH patients and their families only.

Journalists should email uclh.media@nhs.net. This email address is for members of the media only.