Investigation Reveals ‘Barbaric’ NHS Shock Therapy: LGBT Survivors Recount Their Experiences
WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 26: Same-sex marriage supporter Vin Testa, of Washington, DC, waves a LGBTQIA pride flag in front of the U.S. Supreme Court Building as he makes pictures with his friend Donte Gonzalez to celebrate the anniversary of the United States v. Windsor and the Obergefell v. Hodges decisions on June 26, 2023 in Washington, DC. Today marks the 8th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Obergefell v. Hodges case that guaranteed the right to marriage for same-sex couples. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
In a recent investigation, the BBC has uncovered a disturbing history of Electric Shock Aversion Therapy (ESAT) administered within the National Health Service (NHS). Between 1965 and 1973, over 250 individuals were subjected to this practice, purportedly aimed at altering their sexual orientation or gender identity. This revelation has prompted serious concerns regarding medical ethics and patient rights during this period.
Survivor Testimonies
- Jeremy Gavins: Mr Gavins, now 72, reports that the intensity of the electric shocks led to a loss of consciousness, with subsequent hospitalisation lasting three days.
- Pauline Collier: Ms Collier, 80, underwent ESAT at the age of 19. She recalls the application of electrodes and the administration of painful shocks, further stating that the moments before receiving a shock would leave her “very anxious and very frightened.
- Carolyn Mercer: Ms Mercer, 78, identifies as female despite being assigned male at birth. At 17, she was referred for ESAT, which she describes as “cruel, barbaric punishments – torture, not therapy.”
Understanding Electric Shock Aversion Therapy
Calls for Accountability and Redress
Lord Chris Smith, the United Kingdom’s first openly gay Member of Parliament, is advocating for a formal apology from both the government and the NHS. He has characterised the practice as “inhumane” and emphasised the need for accountability.