What was Electric Shock Aversion Therapy used for in NHS hospitals?

Electric Shock Aversion Therapy was used in NHS hospitals between 1965 and 1973 to attempt to change individuals' sexual preferences and gender identity.

How many people were treated with electric shocks in NHS facilities?

Over 250 people were subjected to electric shock treatments in NHS hospitals during the specified period.

Is conversion therapy illegal in the UK?

While professional organizations have abandoned practices like Electric Shock Aversion Therapy, conversion practices are not currently illegal in the UK.

Home / Health / NHS Hospitals Used Shock Therapy on 250+ Teens

NHS Hospitals Used Shock Therapy on 250+ Teens

5 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Over 250 individuals endured electric shocks in NHS hospitals.
The therapy aimed to alter sexual preferences and gender identity.
Survivors report lasting physical and psychological pain from the 1965-1973 treatments.

NHS Hospitals Used Shock Therapy on 250+ Teens

New findings indicate that more than 250 individuals were subjected to painful electric shock treatments within NHS hospitals between 1965 and 1973. These treatments were specifically intended to alter patients' sexual preferences and gender identities, causing significant distress.

Survivors, some of whom were teenagers at the time, have shared harrowing accounts of the profound physical and lasting psychological pain endured. One individual described shocks so intense they led to a loss of consciousness and a multi-day hospital stay.

In response to this investigation, the government is expected to examine the historical application of electric shock aversion therapy within the NHS. While professional bodies have abandoned this practice, conversion practices remain legal in the UK.