The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust has announced that it will shut down its Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) by next spring. Dr. Hilary Cass who has been conduciton a reviews has recommended that gender-affirming care be provided by regional centres. As a first step, NHS England are establishing two new Early Adopter Services – one in London and one in the North West. It is hoped these services will be operational by Spring 2023 to serve all patients across England. Once operational, these services will take over clinical responsibility for all GIDS patients and those on the waiting list, with the current GIDS contract being brought to a managed close.

Last year, referrals to the Gender Identity Development Service stood at over 3,500.

Young trans people who are currently under GIDS service or on the waiting list will be moved to regional centres as the NHS embraces a “holistic and localised approach”.

In the meantime, there will be no immediate changes or interruption to young persons current care. The early adopters will be established by Spring 2023 and all parties are committed to achieving a smooth and seamless transfer for all patients, minimising any disruption. Endocrine care will continue under the current protocols.

NHS England will run a consultation on the new service and will share details of how you can contribute as soon as they have them.