NI to Trial Puberty Blockers in Gender Questioning Youth

Northern Ireland will become a research site for a clinical trial assessing puberty-blocking drugs in children questioning their gender identity. This decision follows a review of the region's gender identity services conducted by Dr. Hilary Cass. Dr. Cass's review, which examined services for young people, previously found a lack of research and weak evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions in gender care.

The upcoming trial, involving around 220 children under 16, will investigate the effects of puberty blockers on their physical, social, and emotional well-being. While engagement with the trial researchers is deemed urgent, Dr. Cass stressed the necessity of significant staff training and infrastructure changes for Northern Ireland's participation.

Her review recommended aligning Northern Ireland's services with those in England, emphasizing a standardized clinical pathway from assessment to treatment. It also called for comprehensive assessments of each young person's needs before medical interventions are considered. To address waiting lists, a new 'Lifespan Gender Identity Service' is planned, aiming to create a smoother transition pathway for individuals aged 17-25.

The Belfast Health Trust currently operates the Brackenburn Clinic, which includes services for adults and a separate youth service known as Knowing Our Identity (KOI). The planned Lifespan model seeks to improve care coordination and transitional support within the region's gender identity services.