Gender care for children and young people at WellBN General Practice
Update provided by NHS Sussex
Following concerns raised about some prescribing for children and young people (under 18 years of age) by WellBN in Brighton and Hove, that may fall outside of national clinical policy and guidance, the NHS Sussex are working with NHS England and have launched a rapid investigation into this activity to determine the most appropriate care and treatment for these patients.
The WellBN practice is no longer initiating prescribing of hormone medications for children and young people under 18 years for gender dysphoria.
The practice will continue to provide general medical care to its patients while the investigation is carried out, and it will continue to provide gender care to adult patients who are aged 18 years and above.
Ongoing support
To help any young people and their families who are, or may be, affected by this investigation, NHS Sussex have established a dedicated helpline for young people under 18, and their families, who are receiving gender care from WellBN. You do not need to be a resident of Sussex to use this helpline.
If you have questions regarding this investigation and how it may affect you, or you need support because this news has upset you, please call. On this call, your details will be taken, and a support worker will quickly call you back at an agreed time.
The number to call is: 0300 1316775, and select option 3. This number is open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
The support workers are NHS staff who are experienced in supporting young people and their families who are receiving, or who have been referred, to gender services. They cannot provide direct clinical advice, but they will listen to your needs and concerns, they will help you access appropriate local support, and they can provide you with information concerning the investigation process.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option to reach the Sussex Mental Healthline which is available 24/7 to adults, children and young people, parents, carers, and professionals.
Sussex residents who are anxious, stressed, or feeling low, can also text the keyword SUSSEX to 85258 for free, anonymous support from a qualified mental health professional within 15 minutes.
If anyone has any questions or concerns about this review, that cannot be answered by the above support line, please contact us on: [email protected]