Calls for transparency and alignment with Cass Review
In a long-awaited report published on October 24, 2024, the Charity Commission has concluded that the charity Mermaids “was not governed to the expected standards” over several years. For many who have followed Mermaids with concern, these findings come as little surprise.
Mermaids, founded in 1995 by parents of gender-nonconforming children, initially served as a support helpline for families. While it is common for some children to explore gender expression, these parents felt a need to offer assistance to others with similar concerns. Over time, however, Mermaids evolved into an advocacy organisation focused on affirming children’s gender identities, reportedly sometimes without parental knowledge. The charity has also promoted the notion that puberty blockers are safe and reversible and has been known to provide breast binders to children, again allegedly without informing parents. Their advocacy model won significant backing, including funding from sources such as the National Lottery in 2018.
Interestingly, in earlier times (2009) Mermaids’ website took a more cautious approach, noting that “gender identity disorders in infancy, childhood, and adolescence are complex and have varied causes” and acknowledging that in the majority of cases, gender nonconforming children would likely identify as homosexual or bisexual later on.
The Cass Review
Following the Cass Review, many now see the Charity Commission’s findings as a necessary step toward better oversight and guidance. Mermaids and similar charities have now been directed to align their practices with the Cass Review’s conclusions. This directive will require all relevant charities to reassess their information, support services, and public messaging, ensuring it aligns with evidence-based standards and is updated as guidance evolves.
Regarding puberty blockers, Mermaids has been directed to provide a more accurate representation of the associated risks. This requirement extends to any charity working in this sensitive area, underscoring the importance of transparency and evidence-based advice in all outreach materials.
The Charity Commission has also mandated that Mermaids improve the accessibility of its complaints process, addressing past shortcomings in its governance structure. Monitoring will be ongoing to ensure these changes are implemented effectively.
Why is this relevant to the Green Party?
In light of this, there is growing frustration that the Green Party is still yet to release a clear position or report on the Cass Review as highlighted in our Safeguarding article.
Many members have called for a response, and the continued delay risks allowing outdated information to persist, potentially impacting children and young people navigating questions of gender. It is essential that the Green Party’s policies and public information are grounded in scientific evidence rather than ideological perspectives.
The Green Party’s upcoming AGM presents an opportunity to raise these issues constructively. The full Charity Commission report is available on Gov.UK and provides further insight into these critical governance concerns.
Register for the AGM