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Gender Identity Calls Surge on Childline
1 Jun
Summary
- Childline saw a 20% year-on-year increase in gender identity counseling sessions.
- Fears of coming out account for four in 10 contacts on gender and sexuality.
- Childline offers a confidential, accepting space for young people to share concerns.
Calls to Childline concerning gender identity have seen a notable increase, with a 20% rise in counseling sessions year-on-year. This trend represents the largest uptick in contacts related to sexuality and gender identity. In the year leading up to March, 476 sessions addressed gender dysphoria, up from 396 the previous year.
Overall, 2,457 counseling sessions focused on sexuality and gender identity. The NSPCC reported that approximately two-thirds of these involved young people identifying as transgender or non-binary. A significant concern for young people, accounting for four in 10 contacts, is the fear of coming out and potential judgment.
During Pride Month, Childline aims to reassure children they offer a confidential and accepting environment. The director highlighted that young people often express fear of not being accepted by family or friends. Childline encourages all children, particularly transgender and non-binary youth, to reach out and share their feelings freely in a supportive space.
