BPS urges swift action on conversion therapy ban amid reports of further government delays
The BPS has responded to reports that the government has 'run out of time' to publish a draft bill to ban conversion therapy.
15 September 2023
Dr Adam Jowett, chair of the British Psychological Society's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Board, said:
"There is an increasing concern about whether the government will fulfil their promise to bring forward legislative measures to end conversion therapy before the next general election.
The government itself has recognised the potential harm to the well-being of individuals who may be subjected to unethical practices claiming to alter sexual orientation or gender identity.
"It is imperative that we swiftly enact effective measures to protect individuals from the harmful and abusive practices that have had lasting negative impacts on lives.
"In the forthcoming draft bill, it is crucial that the language and provisions are unambiguous in their support for ethical therapeutic approaches that include non-directive and non-judgmental practices.
"To address the valid concerns of professionals, it is essential that the bill clearly distinguishes between so-called 'conversion therapy' and the standard, ethical practices.
"Additionally, we must ensure that this legislation does not impede the vital work of psychological and medical professionals.
"Professionals who are well-trained and qualified to support transgender and gender-questioning youth in their identity exploration and provide clinical assessments in accordance with the latest evidence-based guidelines and NHS service specifications must be supported to do so."