When David and Louise’s* teenage daughter said she was really a boy, the couple were told by a swathe of professionals to affirm her delusion, or she might kill herself.

For four years, they lived in turmoil as their daughter’s serious underlying mental health problems went largely unaddressed.

Then one day, a chance encounter with a curious doctor led to a change of mind. In this episode, Julie Bindel talks to the couple along with other parents fed the “trans child” lie by professionals they thought they could trust.

*Pseudonyms

Writer: Julie Bindel

Producer: Samantha Smith

Artwork: Nicole Jones

Actor: Joe Fattorini

Animations: Sarah Vaci (Lordy)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION, ADVICE, AND SUPPORT

The final report of the Cass Independent Review is referenced throughout the series. You can read it here.

The LGB Alliance has a support line if you are 13 – 24 and want to explore your feelings and discuss your experiences in a warm, judgment-free space. The live-chat service is open between 3pm and 6pm on Tuesdays and between 4pm and 7pm on Thursdays. Send them an email at any other time and they’ll get back to you within 48 hours.

Our Duty is an international support network for parents who wish to protect their children from gender ideology. They’ll put you in touch with other parents who want to protect their children from harm.

Get full access to Julie Bindel's writing and podcasts at juliebindel.substack.com/subscribe