Joint Statement by the Children’s Society, Barnardo’s and NSPCC Published on 20th December 2023
Joint statement on transgender guidance for schools
Following the Government's publishing of transgender guidelines for schools, the leaders of three of the UK's largest children's charities have issued this response:
Guidance for schools must recognise that the welfare and wellbeing of individual children are always a primary consideration. We support an inclusive model of education that values difference and challenges all types of discrimination and bullying. It’s also vital it reflects that children and young people have an evolving and increasing understanding of who they are and what they want as they get older. Not recognising this can have a serious impact on their health, wellbeing and and feelings of safety.
Ultimately, this guidance needs to help schools, parents or children to navigate complex and sensitive situations and make sure children are not left without the right support with potential consequences for their health and education. We understand there has been no engagement with children and young people themselves in the development of this guidance so far – it is vital their voices are heard during the consultation period.
We will be engaging with Government to urge them to make sure children’s best interests and, in particular, those of individual children questioning their gender identity, are protected under the final version of this guidance.
Signed:
Mark Russell, Chief Executive, The Children’s Society
Lynn Perry MBE, Chief Executive, Barnardo’s
Sir Peter Wanless, Chief Executive, NSPCC