Support for our transgender and non-binary patients in Bedford
Overview
Gender incongruence describes when your gender identity differs from the sex assigned at birth.
Gender dysphoria refers to the distress or discomfort this may cause.
We are committed to providing inclusive, respectful, and supportive care. If you feel something is missing or unclear, please let us know.
I think I might have gender dysphoria
If you would like to talk to someone:
- NHS Talking Therapies – free, confidential support (self-referral available)
- Bedfordshire Mind – local mental health support
Trans-specific support
- Gendered Intelligence – support for trans and non-binary people
- Mermaids – support for young people and families
- Galop – support for LGBT+ people experiencing abuse
- TransActual UK – information on rights and healthcare
- Tranzwiki – directory of support services
You can also book an appointment with a GP or nurse to talk things through.
💬 You do not need permission to begin living as your identified gender.
Next steps: diagnosis and referral
To access NHS treatments (e.g. hormones or surgery), you need a diagnosis from a specialist Gender Identity Clinic (GIC).
- We can refer you to any NHS clinic in England
- Waiting times are currently very long (often several years)
- Some clinics allow self-referral
Under 18s
Referrals to gender services must come via:
- CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services)
- Paediatric services
Please speak to us so we can guide you.
Changing your name
You can change your name by deed poll.
You do not need a diagnosis or legal gender change.
Changing your name and gender on your medical record
You have the legal right to update:
- Name
- Title
- Gender marker
What happens next?
- You will be issued a new NHS number
- You will be re-registered as a new patient
- Your previous identity details will not appear in your new record
- Your medical history will be safely transferred
⚠️ Important information
If you later decide to change your details again (for example, returning to a previous name or gender), you will need another new NHS number.
➡️ It is not possible to revert to a previous NHS number once it has been changed.
Preferences without record change
If you do not wish to change your official record but want us to use a different name or pronouns, please tell us—we will respect your preferences where possible.
Passports and driving licences
- Passport: requires a doctor’s letter confirming your gender change is likely to be permanent
- Driving licence: can be updated without medical evidence
Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC)
A GRC allows you to:
- Update your birth certificate
- Be legally recognised in your affirmed gender
You must have seen a gender specialist to apply.
👉 You do not need a GRC to be recognised as transgender.
Hormone treatment
At our practice:
- We do not start hormone therapy in primary care
- We may continue treatment under a shared care agreement with a specialist
We will always support referrals and your general healthcare needs.
Screening and health checks
Changing your gender marker may affect automatic screening invites.
Examples
- Trans men (with cervix/breasts): still need cervical and breast screening
- Trans women:
- Breast screening if taking oestrogen
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening (age 65+)
📞 Please contact us so we can ensure you receive appropriate screening.
What happens at a Gender Identity Clinic?
Your first appointment usually includes:
- A detailed discussion
- Assessment by a specialist
- Possible blood tests
Hormones are not usually prescribed at the first visit.
Long waiting times – what are your options?
We understand waiting can be difficult.
⚠️ Safety advice
Avoid buying hormones online or from unregulated sources.
Private clinics
If considering private care:
- Choose UK-based, CQC-registered providers
- Ensure clinicians are UK-registered specialists
- A Shared Care Protocol is required for GP prescribing
We review requests case-by-case with patient safety as the priority.
While waiting for specialist care
You may wish to:
- Begin social transition
- Stop smoking (required before hormone therapy)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage existing health conditions
If you are self-medicating
We understand why some people do this.
Please speak to us—we can:
- Arrange monitoring tests
- Offer support
- Seek specialist advice
💙 Our priority is your safety, without judgement.
Further support and resources
- NHS guidance on trans healthcare
- Cancer Research UK (screening information)
- OUTpatients (LGBTIQ+ cancer support)
- TransActual UK
Contact us
If you would like support, advice, or to update your details:
👉 Contact the practice or submit an online request