Hannah Barnes

The opening of the first of the new NHS gender identity services for children has been further delayed, the BBC has learned. Two new services will replace the Gender Identity Development Service (Gids), based at London's Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. Initially due to open last spring, the London-based southern hub will now not be taking patients this autumn either. A full mobilisation is now planned by April 2024.

By Hannah Barnes and Sean Clare BBC Newsnight A doctor with a key role in reforming a controversial gender identity clinic for children has been recorded questioning the need for change. Prof Gary Butler, clinical lead for the children's gender clinic in England and Wales, also appeared to accuse the author of a report, which will underpin the new service, of "nepotism". He was recorded making the comments in a keynote speech at a major conference.

Image source, Getty Images By Hannah Barnes BBC Newsnight A former health secretary has warned reform of England and Wales' youth gender service is "under threat" over concerns that staff involved in past failings will still have key roles. BBC Newsnight has learned a clinician from the existing gender clinic, due to be closed this year, has been given a training job in the new service. Sajid Javid said appointment processes should be "urgently reviewed".