More than 80 clinicians, researchers and academics have signed an open letter criticising NHS England's decision to ban gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) for transgender young people under 18. The letter, addressed to National Medical Director for Specialised Services James Palmer, raises concerns about the evidence reviews that led to the policy change.
In March, NHS England launched a public consultation on its revised prescribing policy for GAHT for under-18s. Under the updated policy, gender-affirming hormones are no longer accessible before the age of 18, adding to a national puberty blocker ban and the suspension of a planned puberty blocker trial.
The 85 signatories claim the evidence reviews have no clear rationale, ignore previous research, fail to follow standard peer-review processes, and are underpinned by flawed methodology. They argue the reviews misreport key findings and do not justify the 'urgent' withdrawal of care.
The letter calls on NHS England to halt and reverse the policy shift, recognise existing research, align with international best practice, and include patient and clinician testimony in future decisions. The Mirror has approached NHS England and James Palmer for comment.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the government is consulting on how services should operate in the best interests of children and young people, adding: 'The NHS is for everyone... the safety of children and young people always comes first.'
