> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Healthwatch is asking members of trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities to tell of their experiences when they visit the GP
- URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/healthwatch-is-asking-members-of-trans-non-binary-and-gender-diverse-communities-to-tell-of-their-experiences-when-they-visit-the-gp/
- Published: 2024-10-15T12:56:35.000Z
- Updated: 2024-10-15T12:56:35.000Z
- Description: Healthwatch, which gathers the views of users of health and social care services, is asking members of trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities to tell of their experiences when they visit the GP. According to Healthwatch: “GPs are the gateway to accessing other care, whether gender-related
- Author: Graham Robson
- Tags: News, Health, Healthcare, Healthwatch, LGBT, LGBTQ, Trans

**Healthwatch**, which gathers the views of users of health and social care services, is asking members of trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities to tell of their experiences when they visit the GP.

According to Healthwatch: “GPs are the gateway to accessing other care, whether gender-related or not, but trans and non-binary people can face challenges when navigating services.

“Our research aims to build an up-to-date picture of the healthcare landscape which trans, non-binary and other gender-diverse people individuals are currently navigating.”

In the survey, Healthwatch covers quality of care, discrimination, bureaucracy (around changing gender markers and names), prescriptions, and referrals.

**The survey asks several questions to find out:**

- If you’ve sought gender-affirming care from your GP
- If you’ve sought general healthcare or support from your GP
- How you feel about the quality of any care you’ve received
[**CLICK HERE to share your experiences**](https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/HealthwatchEnglandTransGP/?ref=scenemag.co.uk "Healthwatch England Trans and non-binary peoples’ experiences of GP services")

Healtwatch has revealed that those with diverse gender identities are more likely to face discrimination in healthcare settings.

The Government’s [national LGBT survey](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-lgbt-survey-summary-report?ref=scenemag.co.uk) in 2018 showed **38% of trans people have had at least one negative experience** when using healthcare services. In 2021, [TransActual](https://transactual.org.uk/trans-lives-21/?ref=scenemag.co.uk) found that **14% of people were refused GP care** because they were trans or non-binary at least once.

In response to the national LGBT survey’s findings, the Government published the [LGBT Action Plan](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/lgbt-action-plan-2018-improving-the-lives-of-lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-people?ref=scenemag.co.uk). But, Heathwatch says, “work by NHS England on improving access and care for trans and non-binary people has since stalled or slowed”.

Healthwatch goes on to say: “More research to understand the healthcare experiences of trans and non-binary people can help identify the steps NHS and other healthcare leaders need to take to improve their quality of care.

“We’ll analyse the survey responses and create a report highlighting the key findings. These findings and recommendations based on feedback from Trans+ people will be shared with healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public.

“By sharing our findings and recommendations with care leaders and service providers we can provide a clearer understanding of the barriers faced by transgender and non-binary individuals in accessing care.

Your participation will help identify areas for improvement, leading to more inclusive and effective healthcare services. Together, we can make a difference and ensure everyone receives the compassionate and affirming care they deserve.”

CLICK HERE to share your experiences