Staffordshire County Council members raised the issue of a planned national research trial on puberty blockers at a meeting on Thursday.
The PATHWAYS TRIAL is a national research study designed to explore how puberty suppressing hormones impact the physical, social and emotional wellbeing of young people with gender incongruence. The trial will also assess both the benefits and risks of the treatment.
Council's Corporate Parent Role
Deputy Leader Hayley Coles put forward a motion on the issue as part of the council's statutory duty as a Corporate Parent to children and young people in the area.
Coles said: "This trial remains the subject of significant public, professional and parliamentary debate. As Corporate Parents, our priority is the welfare and wellbeing of children and young people. With the PATHWAYS trial approaching, it is right that we stay informed and consider any implications for children and young people in Staffordshire."
Motion Supported by Council Members
The motion was not presented as a decision to change any current policy or procedure. It was supported by councillors in attendance and was presented to help members receive appropriate information and updates on the PATHWAYS TRIAL, enabling them to consider any implications for children and young people in Staffordshire.