Is anyone aware of the differences, if any, between the private sector and the NHS in terms of checks, counselling etc before beginning transitioning? I understand the NHS route involves a lot of stuff to make sure the person fully understands and is committed and suitable for transition. Is the private sector as stringent? I'm sure it's not just a case of pile of cash = transition. Just curious.

A pile of cash will certainly get the job done. 

Hugs, Devlyn

I went to Transhealth health; a private GIC and they followed WPATH. So it wasn't about diagnosing me as trans but seeing if I had any mental health issues which could affect my transition and seeing if I was mature enough to medically transition. The therapist asked the usual questions but I had to lead the conversations mostly and it didn't feel like I was being interigated. I'm still on the waiting list to get my first appointment for an NHS GIC; but from what I've heard they're more strict and possibly ask more invasive questions. Which is understandable seeing as the NHS has limited resources and has to make sure those resources are given to suitable people. It's not right ofc but it's what you get with free healthcare.

I don't know how it is in the UK (I expect similar), but here in Canada, there is essentially no difference between the public health care system and the private sector.  Both follow the WPATH guidelines.  The big difference here (and, I suspect, over there) is that the waiting lists are shorter for the private sector.  I was able to get in in three weeks with a private therapist, where the public system would have made me wait three months.  But the care I received was equally good.