Bell v Tavistock: High Court Rules on Puberty Blocker Consent
The High Court ruled in Bell v Tavistock that children under 16 were unlikely to be able to give informed consent to puberty blockers for gender dysphoria, finding it 'highly unlikely' that a child aged 13 or under could consent and 'doubtful' for those aged 14-15. Brought by Keira Bell, who had been prescribed puberty blockers aged 16 and later detransitioned, the landmark ruling prompted NHS England to immediately pause new referrals from GIDS.
Impact & Significance
Sent shockwaves through gender identity services worldwide and temporarily restricted access to puberty blockers in England, though the ruling was subsequently overturned on appeal in September 2021.
Reference Record
- Date
- 1 December 2020
- Era
- 2020-present
- Sources
- 1
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