Trans and non-binary people's experience of GP services in Portsmouth (early insight)
- Healthwatch Portsmouth
- Apr 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 14
Healthwatch Portsmouth has published an early insight report exploring how trans and non-binary people experience GP services in the city.
This study was undertaken to address the significant health inequalities faced by trans and non-binary people nationally which include systemic administrative barriers and disparity between patient experiences and organisational awareness.
By exploring these issues locally, the report provides the evidence base needed to bridge the divide between policy intent and frontline practice in Portsmouth.
Read the full report here
Trans and non-binary meaning
Trans (or transgender) is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Non-binary is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity does not sit comfortably within the binary categories of man or woman.
Some non-binary people identify as trans, while others do not. For more detailed definitions, you can visit the Mermaids UK Glossary.
Our recommendations
Our report found that while staff are willing to support patients, inclusion is not yet consistently embedded in primary care. We have identified several key areas for improvement:
Role Specific Training: Providing practical and scenario-based training that is tailored to specific roles. This focuses on clinical requirements for medical staff and administrative or communication needs for non-clinical staff.
Clearer Guidance: Developing a concise primary care guidance pack that translates national policies into practical and local steps for practices.
Standardised IT Processes: Creating clear and consistent protocols for updating names and gender markers across all systems. This is vital to improve record safety and prevent patients from having to repeatedly explain their identity.
Inclusive First Contact: Reviewing reception processes to provide confidential communication options. This ensures patients do not have to disclose sensitive information in public waiting areas, which protects their privacy and prevents uncomfortable interactions at the front desk.
Moving forward, Healthwatch Portsmouth is committed to supporting local systems like the Integrated Care Board to translate these recommendations into action.
We aim to work closely with the local healthcare system and believe the value of our community partners, including voluntary sector organisations, should be fully utilised.
Their specialist knowledge and lived experience are vital to ensuring these improvements truly meet the needs of the community.
This report is written by Sunitha Rajeev, Lead Officer, Healthwatch Portsmouth, as part of the project Understanding Trans and Non-Binary People’s Inclusion and Access to GP Services in Portsmouth, included in our 2025–26 work plan.
We are still continuing our research and survey to add more information to our final report. Please let us know if you want to share your experience with us.
Contact us at
Tel: 023 9354 1510
