Sadly the Tavistock gender identity clinic is to close. NHS England have promised to replace it, but working in the NHS I have repeatedly seen big differences in the aspirations of what NHS England have, and the reality that results.
The wait for treatment at the clinic is ever increasing, and by increasing, I mean in a manner faster than the way NHS waiting lists have increased under the Conservatives.
I do feel sorry for those working at the clinic. There is a huge and increasing demand for assessment, and all those who want to be seen, at the time, are convinced that they need to transition. But, Keira Bell has stated that the gender clinic 'should have challenged me more' over transition. Patients should not have to wait as long as they are having to, for these assessments, and the service should be given the capability to assess patients as well as is reasonable so that there are less people like Keira Bell, but also less people who should transition on the waiting list.
I am also concerned that the new Conservative leader is going to put more barriers in the way for people to get these assessments, an example of why I have these concerns being the refusal to ban conversion therapy.
I have posted my views on gender identity before and recently have taken part in a discussion on Twitter about it. Sadly, when challenged, this person decided to withdraw from the discussion, but now appears to have their account suspended. They had asked me to look at a video about what JK Rowling had said, and my views on this can be seen here.
None who are in favour of all men being allowed to enter safe spaces for women so long as they are, or claim to be Trans have answered if this should apply in a local school which has been challenged about rape culture and misogyny. To put it simply, what I and JK Rowling are concerned about is the threat posed by a minority of men, not a threat posed by TransWomen.
