The UK Government recently announced that a proposed ban on conversion therapy will indeed include sexual orientation and gender identity. This is welcomed wholeheartedly by COSRT and represents another shift in position from the Government, following from last year’s confusing and damaging U-turns on the issue. This move, however, is positive and points towards an inclusive ban on an unethical practice.
Michelle Donelan (Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport) gave an update on the legislative process now in action. A draft bill will be published in this parliamentary session, before Joint Committee pre-legislative examination.
The announcement is important but it is not the end of the road. COSRT and other organisations within the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) coalition will continue to hold the Government to account. This will include continuing to push for the now promised inclusive ban which echoes the content of the MoU. Plus ensuring the vital ban does not unintentionally impede therapists legitimately and ethically assisting service users explore gender identity and sexual orientation.
The ban in question will only apply to England and Wales. However, work is under way in the other Nations to develop and implement bans. In 2021 the Northern Ireland Assembly voted in favour of banning conversion therapy. Whilst the Scottish Government’s 2021/22 programme contained a commitment to ban conversion therapy, using devolved powers if necessary by the end of 2023.
For Michelle Donelan’s full written statement please see the UK Parliament website.
For information on the Professional Standards Authority’s support for the MoU please see the PSA website.