The guidance is intended to assist editors preparing coverage of these issues and to inform members of the public about how the PCC can assist with concerns about intrusion, harassment, and discriminatory or inaccurate coverage. It covers issues including using the correct pronouns, the terminology of gender transition, and special considerations that apply in cases involving children.
In preparing the guidance the PCC consulted members of the public and relevant community groups to ensure that it was accurate and reflected the real problems that individuals of transgender status have faced in dealing with press attention and press coverage, as well as their views about how press coverage could improve to ensure greater public understanding of their community.
The guidance also includes information and contact details about organisations that can provide expert advice to editors, as well as examples of complaints to the PCC on these issues.
Charlotte Dewar, Director of Complaints and Pre-publication Services, said "The experience of gender dysphoria and the process of gender transition can in some instances make individuals and their families incredibly vulnerable. We hope this guidance will be a valuable resource for journalists covering stories on this sensitive subject, and ensure that members of the public facing these issues are aware of how we can help when problems do arise."
The PCC has also published other guidance notes for editors on a range of issues such as reporting mental health, refugees and asylum seekers, harassment and court reporting. Full details are available here.
