Ending conversion practices in Scotland - consultation analysis: executive summary

Footnotes

1 A small number of empty or duplicate responses were removed before the analysis began.

2 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Transgender Queer, Intersex, plus

3 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual.

4 Question 1: Do you support our approach to defining conversion practices which focuses on behaviour motivated by the intention to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity?

5 Existing legislation cited included the offence of Threatening or abusive behaviour in section 38 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010.

6 Non-directive guidance or counselling is based on listening, supporting and advising, without directing a client’s course of action.

7 Many respondents referred to definitions when commenting on key terms such as 'conversion practices'. The consultation paper referenced to a number of key terms, which the Scottish Government consider to be important concepts for the proposed legislation. However, only Part 8 of the consultation paper sets out specific definitions.

8 A gender affirming approach could be described as one in which the service or course of behaviour affirms the sexual orientation or gender identity that another person considers themselves to be. The World Health Organisation has set out that gender affirming care ‘can include any single or combination of a number of social, psychological, behavioural or medical (including hormonal treatment or surgery) interventions designed to support and affirm an individual’s gender identity’.

9 Available here: Expert Advisory Group Report and Recommendations for Ending Conversion Practices