Hilary Cass

Hilary Cass is a British pediatrician who led an independent review of gender identity services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK for individuals under 18. Her review has resulted in significant changes to NHS gender care, including a ban on puberty blockers for minors. Cass is currently newsworthy due to her recent statements regarding the influence of social media on young people's understanding of gender transitioning. She believes that young people are being misled by unrealistic portrayals and expectations of transitioning found on social media, and that they have been “weaponized” by these platforms. Her findings and opinions are shaping the ongoing debate surrounding gender identity services for children, and influencing policy decisions. The Health Secretary has called for cross-party consensus on gender identity services, highlighting the sensitivity and importance of the issue in light of Cass's review and the controversy surrounding puberty blocker trials.