Stonewall responds to the Welsh Gender Sevice pausing scheduled and new referrals for gender-affirming surgeries

The NHS is underpinned by  guiding principles including compassion and equal treatment. The decision to immediately pause Welsh Gender Service surgeries and referrals without warning has undoubtedly caused significant emotional and physical distress.

Patients cannot be left in a state of limbo. It is vital that the Welsh Gender Service provides timely information to patients about their ongoing care and supports those navigating uncertainty. Officials should now move at pace to ensure services can be provided to trans+ people. 

Everyone including trans+ and non-binary people deserve access to high-quality, evidence-based, and timely healthcare that protects and supports their health, wellbeing and safety.

If you are struggling and need support, you can contact LGBT Switchboard on 08000 119100.