York trans people ‘being let down by NHS’, watchdog finds
Healthwatch York also found that non-binary and intersex people “face health inequalities because of who they are” following recent surveys.
An NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board spokesperson said it recognises the “seriousness of the issues raised” by Healthwatch and acknowledges “there is work to do” to improve people’s experiences.
Healthwatch York heard from 67 trans, non-binary and intersex people; 14 friends and family members of those people; and nine healthcare professionals when carrying out its research.
Eighty-two per cent of trans, non-binary and intersex people who responded to the survey said they faced barriers “because of who they are”, Healthwatch said.
The watchdog also asked people if their family member or friend had experienced issues when accessing health services and reported that 92 per cent said “yes”.
Of those who did not have a good experience, Healthwatch said healthcare professionals “not following a request to use the person’s chosen pronouns and name was a significant issue”. “This is something easy to address and can make a big difference to someone’s experience,” Healthwatch's report said.
Meanwhile, Healthwatch reported that more than 50 per cent of survey respondents said they hide their identity to access health services.
The watchdog said it found that despite the rights of trans, non-binary and intersex people being protected by law, “many people have shared poor experiences of national and local health services”.
“People told us that they can no longer trust the NHS to support their health and others are struggling with multiple year waits for gender specific services,” its report said.
“It is clear that trans, non-binary and intersex people often face health inequalities because of who they are and the discrimination and lack of understanding that they face in trying to access services for physical and mental health.”
Siân Balsom, Healthwatch York manager (Image: Supplied)
Siân Balsom, Healthwatch York manager, said: “It is clear that many local trans, non-binary and intersex people are being let down by the NHS to the extent that they no longer trust services.
“However, our research shows that some people have the opposite experience and feel supported by local healthcare professionals. Good, gender-informed care is happening locally.”
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Jake Furby, co-chair of trustees at York LGBT Forum, said it was “proud to support this report alongside partner organisations across the region”, adding: “Recognising and addressing the specific health needs of trans, non-binary, and intersex people is essential to improving understanding and achieving better health outcomes.”
The NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board spokesperson said: “The ICB welcomes Healthwatch York’s report and we would like to thank everyone who shared their experiences. The findings highlight that many trans, non‑binary and intersex people continue to face challenges when accessing health services, and we recognise the seriousness of the issues raised.
"We acknowledge there is work to do across the health and care system to improve people’s experiences and ensure services are as inclusive and responsive as possible for all communities."
