NHS trust settles with Christian nurse suspended for using correct pronouns

Written by David Fletcher 16 Apr 2026
NHS trust settles with Christian nurse suspended for using correct pronouns

A Christian nurse has received a settlement from an NHS trust after being suspended for ten months following a dispute over pronoun use with a transgender patient. Jennifer Melle was disciplined after declining to use female pronouns for a male patient, citing her Christian convictions and concerns about biological reality and safeguarding. The situation was further complicated by the patient’s alleged threatening and racially abusive behaviour toward her. Despite this, the trust investigated Melle, reported her to the nursing regulator, and suspended her from duty. However, a later disciplinary panel found no misconduct, leading to her reinstatement earlier this year. The case was settled shortly before it was due to be heard at an employment tribunal. Melle, giving thanks to God for sustaining her through the ordeal, has spoken of the wider implications for healthcare professionals seeking to work according to conscience. The case raises questions about freedom of belief, staff protection, and fairness within the NHS.

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