We have received many valuable comments from those who have signed the declaration and we will post a selection here, changing them regularly:
“As a therapist I am shocked at the blatant lapses in safeguarding children and teens in allowing them to make uninformed adult choices, possibly leading to permanent harm.” (Psychotherapist)
“Language and truth matters, even more so with health and medical applications. Respect biology.” (Retired RGN)
“It is important that language is clear and unambiguous when discussing important issues such as health conditions, prevention and treatment and how it relates differently to men and women.” (Speech and Language Therapist)
“To ensure public health messaging regarding women’s health is tailored to women and disseminated in a clear and concise manner to improve optimal short and long term health and wellbeing outcomes.”(PH Research manager)
“ I am concerned that in the name of inclusion (in principle a very good thing) we have lost sight of some of the other things that matter just as much or even more. Such as safety, safeguarding and evidence based practice. I am worried about social contagion in children and young people. I am worried that information about women’s health is lost without clarity. I am very concerned that the British Psychological Society is promoting an ideology without an evidence based. I want to stand up for what is needed in healthcare.” (Clinical psychologist)
“ I believe that we need an evidence-based scientific approach to policy and treatments. I am concerned about the concept of gender identity, so influential today, but which seems completely divorced from material reality.” (anon professional)
“Sex is immutable. Puberty and its stresses are natural and normal and must be respected and supported for optimal growth, health and development.
Support mental health, do not harm the body. Explore reasons for distress, knowing that fixation on ‘gender’ is learned, just as any OCD condition is cued by environment. Help confused children gain clarity on their physical, biological reality and give them emotional regulation techniques to empower them towards healthy adulthood.” (anon professional )
“Too many vulnerable young people and their families are being harmed by gender ideology and the gender affirming attitude of schools, medical professionals and institutions. It is time this damaging ideology was replaced by scientific truth.” (medical writer)
I support this approach to gender and healthcare because it promotes clarity, safety, and inclusivity. Precise terminology around sex, gender, and gender identity ensures consistency in care, while recording biological sex, with the option to note gender identity, enables a more accurate understanding of patient needs. Policies that are sensitive to sex, sexual orientation, and gender reassignment, in compliance
with the Equality Act 2010, are essential for inclusive healthcare. Additionally, developing safe, research-backed therapies for those experiencing distress around their identity offers compassionate support with appropriate safeguards.
Finally, I feel strongly about avoiding medical interventions in young people until brain maturity. Having had anorexia as a teenager in the 1970s, I remember how important it was to be treated with love and care. No one agreed with my belief that I was fat; instead, my psychiatrist listened patiently and helped me build my confidence and self-esteem. I also had creative therapy sessions, making things that gave me pride. This long-term, thoughtful care was crucial to my recovery. In the same way, children with gender dysphoria deserve patient, supportive, non-invasive care that helps them understand themselves before pursuing irreversible changes.” (Retired)
“Medical interventions in young people undergoing puberty before they reach brain maturity is irresponsible and irreversible. If precise terminology was agreed about sex, gender and gender identity it would help shape the development and testing of a better range of therapies to help those in distress about their sex or sense of identity.” (Teacher)
“I am concerned that peer pressure may make transitioning an attractive option to those who are less popular and that being ‘celebrated for their brave decision’ may be a way to be valued as they navigate the difficulties of adolescence. I am concerned about girls with eating disorders who avoid secondary sexual characteristics and menstruation developing in order to avoid womanhood but may confuse this with transgender thoughts. I am worried about the health risks of cross sex hormones and surgery. I am worried about future regret and that the changes will not be reversible. I am worried about the loss of female spaces both in the healthcare setting and outside.I am extremely worried about parents of very young children being able to change the sex of their child and the NHS number long before the child themselves can consent. I have seen this on 2 occasions in primary school age children. I feel powerless in the face of the harm that is occurring. The fact that I have to anonymise my comments demonstrates how those who speak up are at risk of being marginalised. (Consultant paediatrician)