Children experiencing gender identity issues are set to get better access to vital help next month when support services go national.
At present, children and adolescents can, in theory, access the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS), established in 1989 and based at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust.
It is the only service in the UK for young people up to the age of 18 who believe they may have been born the wrong sex, but many experience problems securing a referral.
Faster access to services
Treatment available includes expert psychological observation, assessment and support, possible suspension of puberty to allow children more time to decide what they want, and hormonal medication.
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