A spokesman for GOSH said staff looked at the best interests of each child in their decisions and that going to court was a “last resort” and that “all other avenues” had been exhausted.

“Ayden had been a patient at GOSH for a long time and our teams got to know him and his family better as we provided 24-hour one-to-one care,” he said.

“He was a loyal and loving presence at his family’s bedside.

“Everyone involved in his life always wanted what was best for him. Unfortunately, sometimes not everyone agrees on what is best.”

The spokesman apologized for the distress caused to Ayden’s family, adding: “We accept that this is a situation no parent or clinician would want and we have always understood and respected his family’s views and commitment to Ayden.

“This has been an incredibly difficult situation for everyone involved, especially Ayden’s family. Our thoughts are with them and our teams will continue to do all we can to support them.”