Story perspectives

Scotland Reviews NHS Funding for Controversial Circumcision Practices

2/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Scottish Government faces pressure to end NHS funding for non-therapeutic male circumcision, the UK's only such service.
Public polling shows strong opposition to non-therapeutic circumcision.
A Freedom of Information request shows one NHS centre spends up to £300,000 yearly.
The National Secular Society argues the practice violates children's rights and should not be funded amid budget constraints.
The Scottish Government is reviewing its guidance on this issue.

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Story summary

The Scottish Government faces pressure to end NHS funding for non-therapeutic male circumcision, the UK's only such service.
Public polling shows strong opposition to non-therapeutic circumcision.
A Freedom of Information request shows one NHS centre spends up to £300,000 yearly.
The National Secular Society argues the practice violates children's rights and should not be funded amid budget constraints.
The Scottish Government is reviewing its guidance on this issue.