The Royal College of Psychiatrists have published a contribution to the Church of England’s listening process on human sexuality.
The report is available here.
The Revd Richard Kirker chief executive of the LGCM said:
“This is a momentous document.”
“When the Church stopped burning us and the state stopped imprisoning us – the medical profession went on torturing and maiming gay British people for decades.”
“There are many people today whose lives were shattered as a result of these vicious and dehumanising ‘treatments’. We see this document as just a small part of a long and painful apology.”
“The submission is a useful summary of the up to date scientific evidence and it will help Anglicans in their understanding of scripture. It is both timely and helpful and it comes at a very important moment in the life of our Communion. We see the significant call for LGB people to be free from inappropriate therapies is a matter the Royal College should take further. We are asking the College to develop a set of protocols to identify these illegitimate therapies and in co-operation with the other Royal Colleges and professional bodies with responsibility for councillors and therapists ensure that these practices are not allowed in the UK.”
“The report’s principal author Professor Michael King has graciously accepted an invitation to speak at LGCM’s lunch time meeting during the next session of General Synod,” Mr Kirker announced.
ENDS
