Transgender and Non-Binary

For general emotional support, contact NHS Talking Therapies or Mind

• For information on trans-specific services, visit Tranzwiki.
• If you’re aged 16–25, Talk for Support offers groups, one-to-one sessions, and advocacy in Herefordshire.
• You can also book an appointment with one of our clinicians to talk things through

You don’t need anyone’s permission to live as the gender you identify with, though it can help to have support while making social changes.

• A diagnosis from a specialist gender clinic is required for NHS treatments such as hormones or surgery.
• GPs can refer you, but NHS waiting times are currently several years.
• There are seven main adult NHS gender clinics in England – details are on the NHS website.
• Some clinics offer self-referral forms you can download.
• If you’re under 18, please speak to a GP for advice as services are currently limited.

• You can change your name by deed poll.
• You can change your name, title and gender marker on your medical record — you do not need a Gender Recognition Certificate.
• This involves issuing you with a new NHS number. Please book a GP appointment first to discuss the process.
• If you’d prefer to use a chosen name without formally changing your records, please tell us so we can use it when we contact you.

• You can update your passport or driving licence without a Gender Recognition Certificate.
  • Passport info: GOV.UK – Gender change
  • Change the name or gender on your driving licence - GOV.UK
• A Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) allows legal gender change on your birth, marriage, or death certificate.
  • Apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate: Overview - GOV.UK

If you change your gender on NHS records, you may stop receiving some screening invitations automatically. 

• Trans men: If you still have a cervix or breasts, please ask for cervical and breast screening. 
• Trans women: Eligible for breast screening (ages 50–70 if taking oestrogen) and aortic aneurysm screening after 65. 
• More details: NHS screening for trans and non-binary people. 

NHS waiting times are long, but we do not recommend buying hormones online — this can be unsafe

• If you’re considering a private clinic:
  • Choose one that is UK-based, CQC-registered, and ideally run by NHSgender specialists.
  • They should provide a Shared Care Protocol if they want your GP toprescribe ongoing treatment.
• If you have already started hormones, please book a GP appointment — we’llfocus on keeping you safe and monitoring your health

• Consider making social changes if ready (name, pronouns, clothing, etc.).
• Stop smoking (required before hormone therapy).
• Keep healthy — surgery referrals usually require a BMI under 31
• •Manage any long-term health conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma, heart disease)