If you're trans — you have rights in the UK. Treatment is free through the NHS. But the system is slow — GIC waiting times are 5-7 years. There are things you can do while you wait. And there are private options.
How NHS Gender Identity Clinics (GIC) work
Your GP refers you to a GIC (Gender Identity Clinic). You can choose ANY GIC in England, not just your nearest one.
GIC clinics in England:
- Tavistock and Portman (London)
- Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health
- Leeds Gender Identity Service
- Sheffield Porterbrook Clinic
- Newcastle Northern Region Gender Dysphoria Service
- Daventry Gender Clinic
- Exeter Devon Partnership
Current waiting times: 5-7 YEARS. Sheffield — ~280 weeks. Leeds — 6+ years.
This is unacceptable and the NHS knows it. But it's the reality right now.
What you can do while you wait
Your GP can issue a bridging prescription — hormones as a "bridge" until your GIC appointment. The GMC allows this. But 77% of GPs refuse.
If they refuse — show your GP these resources:
Your GP can refer you to mental health support while you wait.
You can switch GPs if yours isn't helping.
Private options
GenderGP
London Transgender Clinic
Clinics and resources
CliniQ (King's College Hospital)
Gendered Intelligence
Mermaids
TransActual
Brighton Clinic T
Changing documents (Gender Recognition Certificate)
Apply for a GRC: gov.uk/apply-gender-recognition-certificate
Cost: £5.
Requirements:
- Be over 18
- Diagnosis of gender dysphoria
- Have lived in your gender for 2+ years
- Statutory declaration (from a solicitor)
- Medical report
Surgery is NOT required for a GRC.
Your rights
The Equality Act 2010 protects against discrimination based on gender identity. At work, in housing, in services — discrimination is illegal.
If you face discrimination: