Overview

• NHS England's draft guidance requires all children referred to gender clinics to be screened for autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
• The framework includes evaluations of mental health, family dynamics, and sexual development, including same-sex attraction, as part of a comprehensive assessment.
• The new care model replaces the Tavistock clinic's medical pathway with a multidisciplinary approach at clinics in London and Manchester.
• Baroness Cass's review highlighted high rates of neurodiversity and mental health challenges among gender-questioning youth, prompting these changes.
• The guidance is set for public consultation in 2025, with clinicians and advocacy groups debating its approach to cross-sex hormone referrals and environmental influences.