The waiting list for NHS gender-affirming care for under-18s has seen a 12% rise, totaling 6,225 children as of March. Average wait times reached 116 weeks, indicating significant delays in service access. Chay Brown from TransActual highlighted the dire implications, mentioning that many on the list age out or even die waiting. NHSâs James Palmer acknowledged the struggles families face and noted efforts to offer mental health support and improve services through regional expansions, despite the persistent high demands on gender services.
The majority of people leaving the waiting list at that time will have aged out. Sadly, some will have died whilst waiting - waiting times for NHS gender services have been cited in several prevention of future deaths reports.
NHS medical director for specialised services stated that it can be "really difficult" for children and their families who are stuck on waiting lists, emphasizing the importance of accessing mental health support during this time.
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