We are greatly concerned about the news this week that the Government is intending to bring forward legislation on “conversion therapy” and, under pressure from campaigners, to extend its scope to cover so-called transgender conversion therapy.
Banning talking therapies for children experiencing gender dysphoria should surely be considered “conversion therapy” in itself, as a total ban would mean that opportunities for children and their parents to discuss their feelings with medical professionals would be considered unlawful. This would leave affirmation of a child’s transgender identity as the only route open to parents, teachers and therapists.
Surely if the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is so concerned by the Scottish Gender Reform Bill – which allows 16 year olds to legally change their gender – that he has stepped into to veto it, then he understands that children cannot fully understand the implications of a making a decision which would impact the rest of their life?
There are already existing laws against coercion in the UK, which prevent abhorrent attempts to “cure” anyone of their sexual orientation against their will. But if adults wish to seek advice about their gender or sexuality, why should they be denied this right by a state injunction?
If you are worried about this overstepping by the Government, you may wish to write to your MP to express your concerns. We have written a letter which you can download and edit as appropriate to send to you local MP.
Conversion therapy ban letter for MPs