Clinical Advisory Network on Sex and Gender
Rachel Cashman highlights the severe conflict of interest in the NHS Sussex investigation into inappropriate prescribing practices for minors. She argues for an independent inquiry, citing previous failures in safeguarding and leadership within NHS governing bodies. The urgency lies in restoring public trust and ensuring child safety over ideological conflicts.
Maia Poet, a 26-year-old independent writer, examines the relationship between autism and gender dysphoria, arguing it often reflects untreated neurodevelopmental distress. During her speech at the European Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Maia explores the metaphor of being “born in the wrong body” and the feelings of disembodiment many neurodiverse young people experience. She argues that the diagnosis of gender dysphoria may overlook the true needs of neurodiverse youth, and advocates a psycho-social approach instead of medical intervention.
Mr Joseph Chrysostom MBBS, MS (General Surgery), Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh is a retired Associate Specialist in A&E, working in a university health board in South Wales. His professional interests lie in the emergency initial management and resuscitation of surgical patients and major trauma cases. He is also an Advanced Trauma […]
On March 6, 2025, the Clinical Advisory Group on Sex and Gender (CAN-SG) hosted a panel to review the progress following Dr. Hilary Cass’s 2024 review of gender identity services for children. The Cass Review highlighted the weak evidence supporting medical interventions for gender dysphoria and emphasised psychological therapy as the preferred management approach. Hannah Barnes discussed the history and closure of the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS), pointing out missed opportunities and the lack of meaningful patient data. Other panelists emphasised the need for psychotherapy, addressing misinformation, and ensuring ethical considerations in treatment pathways for young patients, while acknowledging the challenges of implementing the Review’s recommendations.
This article by Dr David Bell and Dr Sinead Helyar examines concerns regarding a proposed clinical trial of puberty blockers (PBs) for children with gender dysphoria. It argues that a PB trial would pose unacceptable risks and contravene ethical standards. The authors advocate alternative avenues for research and safer treatment methods for this vulnerable group of children.