When can I receive medical advice or treatment on my own?

Young people aged 16 or over are entitled to consent to their own treatment and this can only be overruled in exceptional circumstances.

Children under the age of 16 can consent to their own treatment if they’re believed to have enough understanding to fully appreciate what’s involved. This is known as being Gillick competent.

If the doctor or nurse does not believe you fully understand the treatment, they may seek the consent of your parents or carer.

Is a doctor or nurse allowed to tell anyone about something I say to them?

A doctor or nurse cannot tell anyone about what you say to them, unless they are worried about your safety or if you are likely to endanger the safety of others.

If the doctor or nurse has a concern that you are at risk of harm or you are being harmed, for example in situations involving domestic or sexual abuse, he or she has to inform the relevant authority in order to keep you safe. If you are under the age of 16, this duty is mandatory.

What if I want medical treatment and my parents or guardian refuse?

You can get medical treatment without the consent of your parent or carer if the doctor or nurse thinks you are mature enough to understand the consequences of the treatment. However, if the doctor or nurse thinks you don’t understand the consequences, and your parents or guardian don’t give consent, then the treatment won’t be given.

Can I ever refuse medical treatment?

If you are under 18, your doctor, parents, or carer can apply to the court for an order to make you accept treatment. This doesn’t happen often and only happens in serious cases where someone’s life might be at risk. The court will make a decision that is in your best interest.

Can I get advice on sexual health, even if my parents or carer do not want me to?

You can see your doctor or nurse for advice on sexual health and contraception at any age. If you are under 16, a doctor can give you contraception without telling your parents, as long as they think you understand the possible risks.

The doctor will only tell your parents or guardian if they believe you might be at risk of harm, for example, if they think you are being sexually abused. But they must talk to you first to let you know they are going to tell someone else.

Can I donate blood or organs?

You can only donate blood if you fully understand what is involved.

If you are under 18 you can donate your body and organs when you die. If you are under 16 you need your parents’ consent to carry a donor card and your parents will need to agree to your organs being used after death.

Do I have to pay for medicine?

If you’re under 16, you can get free prescriptions. If you are aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education, your prescriptions are also free. Prescriptions for contraception, like the pill, are always free no matter your age.

Useful organisations

Brook Advisory Centre – The young people’s sexual health charity for under-25s that provides advice, support, and information.