On further research, I looked at the parent information sheet:
What are the topics of conversation?
The topics for conversation cover 1) Creating more inclusive spaces; 2) Mental health needs; 3) Sexual health needs; 4) Specific needs of transgender and intersex young people and; 5) Employment and education
Overall, I think this is a badly needed piece of research for 14-18year olds, virtually all of whom struggle with their emerging sexuality (straight, gay, bi, lesbian, whatever).
Why are the specific needs of transgender prioritised over other groups?
A forum where they can express the concerns of LGB and questioning T children is a great idea.
I have strong concerns about those children being in contact with adults, unless those adults are trained and vetted.
It goes on to advise parents
"What are the possible risks of taking part?
Maintaining anonymity
Because they will need an active email address to log in to the platform, other people participating in the forum will be able to see this email address. A username will be generated using this email address. If you are happy for them to participate, but do not want other participants to know their email address, we recommend setting up a new email account using another name and logging in with this rather than a personal email account.
Emotional upset
It is possible, although unlikely, that emotionally upsetting topics may emerge in the discussion. If your child is upset by anything, they can message us privately through the platform or via email and we will do what we can to provide support or refer them to an appropriate support service. You could also contact us via email."
I dont think they are doing enough here.
I am aware of many children in the 14-18 range who have come out as homosexual and several who are questioning T.
Without exception the children who are questioning T, have additional specific learning needs.
Hence are vulnerable.
Their parents are also vulnerable- the parents I speak to are very concerned about the potential for their children to be exploited, particularly online.
It's (in my view) unethical to dig into children's concerns, raise issues with them, and respond to any upset via email. How impersonal.