The gender service at Sandyford offers specialised care for anyone experiencing gender dysphoria. This can include psychological support, hormone therapy, and referrals for surgical interventions. The service aims to provide comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to each person’s needs.
On this page you will find information on:
Non-urgent advice: Waiting list information
November 2018
Last updated November 2025
Please ensure you reply to all correspondence from us as we may not be able to keep your place if we don’t hear from you.
We cannot provide individual updates on your position on the waiting list. Please keep a note of your referral date and continue to check the above information. We update this monthly.
Who this service is for
The adult gender service supports people 18 and over who are experiencing gender dysphoria.
Gender dysphoria refers to the distress or discomfort a person may feel when their gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This feeling can affect different parts of life, including emotions, relationships, and wellbeing.
People may choose to explore ways to feel more comfortable in their gender – such as changing their name, appearance, or accessing medical support – but every journey is personal.
Please note: We are unable to offer any advice or support on hormones sourced from private companies.
The areas we cover
This service is open to those living in:
- Greater Glasgow & Clyde
- Argyll and Bute
- Ayrshire & Arran
- Forth Valley
- Lanarkshire
- Tayside
- Western Isles
- Dumfries and Galloway
What to expect
While you wait for your first appointment
We understand waiting for treatment can be difficult for many patients. Please look at the available support services to help you.
Coming to your first appointment
We’ll contact you when it’s time for your first appointment. You can bring someone with you to your appointment if you like.
Location
The Gender Service is based at 93 Candleriggs, Merchant City, in a bright, modern space on the top floor. There is lift access. Sandyford signage on the front and throughout the building will guide you to the right place. For full directions and details, visit our Locations page.
Arriving
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by friendly staff at the reception desk.
Waiting area and facilities
You’ll be asked to sit in a quiet waiting area where gender-neutral toilets and water fountains are available.
Your appointment space
A staff member will come to collect you for your appointment. All of our rooms are private to ensure confidentiality.
Attending with children policy
If possible, please avoid bringing children to your appointment unless someone can stay with them in the waiting area. Consultations may involve sensitive questions about your sexual history and could include procedures in a medical setting that are not safe for unsupervised children. If we’re unable to carry out your appointment safely, we won’t be able to proceed. Thank you for your understanding.
Trainee members of staff
As a training centre, we may ask you if a trainee can sit in on your appointment. You will always be given the chance to say no to this request.
At your first appointment
What happens during your appointment
At your first appointment we will discuss your current situation and check that this service is still appropriate for your needs. This will be in a confidential and supportive environment. We will then discuss available support and treatment options with you. We may potentially refer you to other services you may benefit from.
Who you’ll meet
You may be seen by different professionals, but please be assured all staff are trained and experienced in gender healthcare.
Trainee members of staff
As a training centre, we may ask you if a trainee can sit in on your appointment. You will always be given the chance to say no to this request.
Your appointment space
A staff member will come to collect you for your appointment. All of our rooms are private to ensure confidentiality.
Ongoing care
Most people we see tend to be offered multiple appointments. If appropriate we may complete a diagnosis of gender incongruence and look at further management (coping methods) options. You may be seen by different members of staff which range in professions, but everyone is trained and experienced in gender health care.
Those waiting to receive letters for either commencing or making changes to hormone treatment or schedules should expect a wait of roughly six weeks.
Contact us
Due to service constraints we can only answer queries from patients already on our waiting lists or in active treatment with us.
Please be aware that:
- It may take up to 2 months to receive a response from the service.
- We cannot share an individual’s specific position in the waiting list – please refer to the waiting list times above.
We understand that waiting for care can be difficult, and we want to thank you for your patience. Our teams are working hard to improve access and ensure everyone receives the support they need as soon as possible.
Updating your details
Please get in touch if you have changed your name by deed poll, updated your CHI, email address or have moved address. We are not provided these details by your GP and rely on our patients to update us.
Email updates to: ggc.adultgender.sandyford@nhs.scot
If you are unable to access emails, please call us on 0141 211 8693 and we can update your details over the phone.
If you would prefer you can also write to us at the following address: Gender Service, 4th Floor, 93 Candleriggs, Merchant City, Glasgow, G1 1NP.
Gender Recognition Certificates
Due to high demand we are experiencing significant wait times to respond to GRC information requests.
Please consult: Apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate: Overview – GOV.UK
Further support
The resources below may be useful: