Thousands of Children Face Long Waits for NHS Gender Care

New data reveals extensive delays despite recent openings of specialist hubs in England and Wales.

Over 5,700 children are on the waiting list for NHS gender care services, with an average wait time of nearly two years.
The new clinics, led by Great Ormond Street Hospital and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, began operating in April 2024.
At least one child under the age of five is among those waiting, despite guidelines suggesting a minimum referral age of seven.
Experts stress the urgent need for timely access to care, citing significant mental health implications for affected children and families.
NHS England plans to expand the number of specialist centres and improve service delivery as recommended by the Cass Review.