The High Court has ruled that children under the age of 16 considering gender reassignment are ‘unlikely’ to be mature enough to provide consent and fully understand the “the long-term risks and consequences” of undergoing medical treatment.
Cases involving older teenagers, such as under 18 year-olds, may also need to consult the courts for authorisation for medical intervention.
The case was brought against Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust, which said it was “disappointed by today’s judgement” and have agreed to suspend new referrals.
A spokesperson for the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust said: “Our first duty is to our patients, particularly those currently receiving hormone blocking treatment, and we are working with our