A Christian nurse with over a decade of service at a South London hospital has been suspended from her role after referring to a transgender patient, who is also a convicted pedophile, using male pronouns during a medical consultation.
Jennifer Melle, 40, was working a night shift at St. Helier Hospital when the incident occurred. According to CP, the patient—who identifies as female—was receiving treatment under guard while serving a sentence in a men’s prison for child sex offenses. Melle reportedly referred to the individual as "mister" while discussing his care with a doctor, which prompted the patient to respond with threats and alleged racial abuse.
Following the altercation, Melle was informed that her language had violated professional standards related to respecting a patient’s gender identity. She was later suspended pending further investigation.
“I’ve dedicated my life to caring for people with compassion and respect,” Melle said in a statement. “To be penalized for using biological terms, especially in a high-pressure moment, is deeply distressing.”
CP reports that Melle’s case has sparked criticism from legal advocates and religious liberty groups, who argue the hospital's response infringes upon freedom of conscience and speech in the workplace. The Christian Legal Centre, which is representing Melle, emphasized that medical professionals should not be coerced into language that contradicts their beliefs or clinical judgment.
Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said the situation reflects growing pressure on healthcare workers to conform to ideologically driven policies. “We are seeing a disturbing trend where long-serving professionals are being punished for upholding truth and biology,” Williams stated, according to CP.
Hospital authorities have not released details of the disciplinary process, citing patient confidentiality and ongoing proceedings.
The controversy has reignited national debate in the UK over gender identity policies in public institutions, especially in contexts involving vulnerable populations and convicted criminals. While advocates for transgender rights argue that such policies protect dignity and equality, others warn that they risk suppressing reasonable dissent and moral conviction among frontline workers.
Melle remains suspended and says she is considering her next steps with legal counsel. “I never imagined my faith and commitment to truth would cost me my career,” she added.
