Answering a Parent's Questions About the R22 Project

A parent recently reached out to me with questions about the NHS R22 project and what it means for her seven-year-old trans daughter. Her concerns are the right ones to be asking, and they deserve straightforward answers grounded in clinical experience and evidence.

Parents of young trans children often find themselves navigating confusing information and uncertain pathways through healthcare. The R22 project raises important questions about research, consent, safeguarding, and what genuine support looks like at different stages of a child's gender journey.

I've written out my response to her questions in full, because I believe other parents are likely wondering the same things. Read on to find out what the project actually involves and what you should be thinking about if it's relevant to your family.