In December 2022, we responded to the NHS England consultation on how the interim service specification for gender dysphoria services could change care and the way services are delivered.
Background
The outlines a series of proposals to support establishing new (phase 1) services by Spring 2023. This follows independent given by the Cass Review in July 2022.
Our response
We identify several areas for NHS England to consider as they continue to develop the interim service specification. These include:
- An opportunity to improve the language used so that the welfare of CYP and their best interests are put at the centre of the design and delivery of these services.
- An emphasis on the importance of fostering a therapeutic and engaging relationship between the CYP and health team.
- Further consideration about the safeguarding protocol that is envisaged for this interim service.
- Engaging the workforce and supporting them in sharing their expertise and knowledge when thinking about the future of these services.
Our full response is available to download below.
We respond to a wide range of consultations to ensure that the College’s position, and ultimately children’s health, is represented. Members can get involved in current consultations by contacting the Health Policy team: health.policy@rcpch.ac.uk