I was offered a job today with a large children's charity. During the call to offer me the job I asked about whether if this issue came up they were open to a diversity of opinions. The issue concerned was the affirmation model re transgender kids (ie they are affirmed as soon as they identify as the other gender).
Because I had concerns that other causes of gender dysphoria were not being explored - as expressed by many Tavistock whistleblowers and this may not be helping the child. I expressed my concern as a concern about children's wellbeing and the need to be child centred. I also asked about the still existing link and work with Mermaids on the website because of this affirmation model and because they had not withdrawn their advice on puberty blockers not being reversible. I said I felt it was important that as new evidence emerged it was important this was incorporated. The person on the call was supportive and said I would be allowed to express my opinion in an internal debate should one arise. I then received another call a few hours later from the same person telling me the job offer was being withdrawn because my values did not fit with their values of inclusion. I then asked whether if new evidence emerged that this approach was harming children whether they would change their practice. They said they would not. Note I had not accepted the offer yet as I was going to discuss working hours with my DP, but I was planning to accept it. I don't want the job anymore, but I am concerned at how I have been treated and more importantly the implications for safeguarding children - that a major children's charity would not change it's position whatever the evidence. Thoughts?