As a former NHS worker I can say that official complaints about poor treatment of trans patients are rare, especially when complained to the “unofficial” complaints I would hear from within the community. I know it’s scary to try to explain what someone is doing wrong when what they are doing wrong is negating your personhood, but there are many actual allies in the NHS and they can and will make your voice heard.
If your GP receptionist
Already knows about your gender
But always seems to get it wrong
It’s not your job to not offend her.
It’s ok to put her right,
It shouldn’t cause her too much pain
But if she will not see the light
Complain. Complain. Complain. Complain.
If you ask to be referred
Into your local gender clinic
And your GP is being absurd,
A patronising gender cynic,
Saying that you are mistaken
Hinting that you are insane
That is not their call to make:
Complain. Complain. Complain. Complain.
Needing medical attention?
Lying still to have a scan?
And your medic asks the question
“How are you not just a man?”
You’re not there to educate her
Ill and frightened and in pain:
Take a breath and wait till later
Then, complain. Complain. Complain.
It might seem that there’s no use in
Making calls and writing letters
But we’re not here for abusin’
Our health service can be better
It’s not simply pointless bitchin’
Allies in the NHS
Really need the ammunition
They will help you find success.
Bigotry and hate affect us
But when we are in their care
There are laws that should protect us”
Make sure they are made aware.
No, we shouldn’t have to do it
Yes, it really is a pain
But, they’ve got to learn, so screw it.
When they get it wrong, COMPLAIN.
Tom Juniper Poetry 