An independent review has found that thousands of children questioning their gender identity have been "let down by the NHS."

Dr Hilary Case headed the 400-page review into England's model of care for transgender young people, and claimed there is "weak evidence" suggesting that puberty-blocking hormones made a positive or negative impact on their mental health.

Puberty-blocking hormones refer to medication that suppresses unwanted puberty-related changes.

Dr Cass said: “It is absolutely right that children and young people, who may be dealing with a complex range of issues around their gender identity, get the best possible support and expertise throughout their care.”

She stressed that she is not trying to undermine trans identities and their right to medically transition, but rather to ensure they get the best care possible.

NHS England stopped providing puberty blockers for children with gender dysphoria on 1 April after a review found "insufficient evidence of their safety or clinical effectiveness."

NHS England commissioned her inquiry in 2020 after concerns were raised about the care provided by the Tavistock and Portman NHS mental health trust’s gender identity development services (Gids).

It treated about 9,000 children and young people, with an average age at referral of 14, during 2009-2020.

Cats also noted that the controversy surrounding the use of medical treatments had "taken focus away from what the individualised care and treatment is intended to achieve for individuals seeking support from NHS gender services."

For information on how to help young people affected by these issues, click here.