Editorial: The Cass Review – implications and reassurance for practitioners

Abstract

This editorial perspective summarises the key findings of the independent review of gender identity services for children and young people commissioned by the National Health Service (NHS) in England (the Cass Review). Although the evidence underpinning endocrine interventions in this group of young people remains weak, there is much that mental health practitioners can do to improve their well-being and support their families. The controversies surrounding this group of young people have disempowered local professionals, who have lost confidence in their ability to provide care for them. The reality is that CAMHS professionals already have all the necessary transferrable skills and with a small amount of top up training, they can make a profound difference to the lives of this vulnerable group, which has been marginalised in our healthcare system.