BBC News
·Jul 2026
Puberty blockers trial can start recruiting children after judge rejects legal challenge
The High Court has cleared King's College London's Pathways clinical trial to begin recruiting more than 220 gender-questioning children in England from 1 August 2026. The trial, commissioned by NHS England after the Cass Review found weak evidence for puberty blockers, will examine effects on bone density, brain development, fertility and mental wellbeing. Campaigners argued that the study was unethical and lacked adequate safeguards, but Mr Justice Chamberlain rejected their legal challenge. Researchers and the Health Research Authority welcomed the ruling, while opponents, including Keira Bell and the Bayswater Support Group, expressed disappointment. Recruitment had previously been delayed by the court action, and the trial now includes strengthened age and safety requirements.