Nurseries have been advised to offer gender identity guidance to staff and children, according to an NHS trust's equalities and diversity policy.

The guidance issued by University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust also advises avoiding gendered language and grouping boys and girls together.

It outlines that “for the majority of children the gender in which they are born fits them”.

However, there were some children whose feelings did “not match their bodies in terms of expected dress and behaviour”, according to The Times.

“This is sometimes known as gender variance or gender non-conformity,” the guidance adds.

It also advises nursery staff to “avoid using gender-specific language” as well as avoiding “grouping boys/girls together”.

Critics have claimed the advice is unnecessary and could hinder children’s education.

They say it would prevent them from learning vocabulary that applies specifically to men and women.

Staff have been told to avoid using gendered language

“Nursery staff and children will not be denied fair and equal treatment of their gender identity,” the guidance states.

It further advises that staff or children who want to be known as transgender “will be provided with a supportive environment”.

The guidance further states that all areas of the curriculum and resources will be monitored closely to make sure gender stereotypes or transphobic material are avoided.

Two on-site nurseries for children under five are on site at the trust’s hospitals in Brighton and Haywards Heath.