Exclusion of transgender people from conversion therapy ban in the Queens Speech is deeply concerning, says BPS
The BPS has responded to the Queen’s Speech, reiterating its position for transgender people to be included in the ban on conversion therapy.
22 June 2022
The society will also work closely with its members to scrutinise the Draft Mental Health Act Reform Bill to ensure those with autism and learning difficulties are protected and do not indirectly end up involved in the criminal justice system.
Sarb Bajwa, Chief Executive of the BPS, said:
"By not including transgender people in the proposed ban on conversion therapy the government has yet again failed to provide protection to the trans community.
The BPS is clear on the need to protect transgender people from the harm that conversion therapy brings and we reiterate our position that it is unethical and not backed by evidence.
"We will focus carefully on the Draft Mental Health Act Reform Bill to ensure we represent the views of our diverse membership.
We support the objective of the Bill to ensure people mental health conditions have greater control over their treatment and receive the dignity and respect they deserve, however we must ensure that the proposed changes do not lead to vulnerable people with learning difficulties and autism ending up within the criminal justice system through no fault of their own.
"Amending the Act to ensure those experiencing mental health difficulties get the personalised care they need is all well and good, however it is pertinent to note that currently neither the workforce nor funding is in place to ensure those who need mental health support and services get the help they need.
The government must address this urgently if it intends to make a real difference to the way mental health is treated in this country."
Other areas of note for the BPS include the Online Safety Bill and the Bill of Rights and we will work closely with our members to ensure the BPS position and key psychological evidence is represented.