The Cass Report

Only an idiot would envy Hilary Cass’ job, in analysing the complex fiasco of the GIDS clinic at the Tavistock. Not surprisingly, it’s taken her a long time, and she’s produced a very long report. A lot of it is nece4ssary and intelligent. There is a dangerous lack of clear evidence about the effects of various treatments, and in some cases direct hostility to securing better evidence. The massive increase in young people reporting gender dysphoria is a serious problem, not just a fad to be waved away. And it’s clear that whatever side you take in this complicated mess, the management at GIDS did not handle serious professional disagreements with courage or tact.

Then Cass addresses, as she has to, the climate in which all this takes place. There are extreme views, social media attacks, outrageous accusations of transphobia directed at dedicated professionals trying to do their best. In this area, as so many the prospect of constructive debate is currently looking very remote. “This must stop”, says Cass, sounding like a primary school teacher calling six-year olds to order. But they’re not little kids. They’re older teenagers, swearing defiance and carrying knives, demanding what she plans to do about it, and right now the answer isn’t clear. .