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Welcome

We’re here to help you feel healthy, happy, and safe.

This information explains:

  • When you can say “Yes” or “No” to treatment and support
  • How we keep your information private
  • What happens at appointments
  • How we help keep you safe

Saying “yes” or “no” to treatment and support

You have the right to get help with your health and feelings.

Sometimes, you can say “Yes” to treatment and support without a parent or carer’s permission, if you fully understand what is involved.  You can ask lots of questions and take time to think before deciding. But remember, if you say “No”, you can always change your mind later. 

This is called Gillick Competence (a big word for making your own health choices).

What is Gillick Competence?

Doctors and nurses will ask a few questions to check whether you understand:

  • What the treatment or support involves
  • Why you need it
  • What might happen next if you have it or if you don’t.

If you understand all this, you might choose to say “Yes” or “No” to the treatment and support offered.

They’ll always give you all the information you need to make sure you’re ready to decide.

Keeping things private

We keep your information safe.

Doctors and nurses won’t tell anyone what you say, even your parents or carers, unless:

  • You’re in danger or
  • You need help to stay safe

Then, they might need to tell someone to protect you, but we will always tell you first.

Getting help

You can come to us if:

  • You’re feeling worried, sad, or unwell.
  • You have a problem you want help with.

Our team is friendly and here to listen.

Sometimes, you might need more than one visit.

If another service can help more, we’ll explain everything.

We will always encourage you to talk to your parents or carers too.

Your health record

We always write down what we talk about in your private health record.

  • Only health workers or people with permission can see it.
  • This keeps your information private and protected.

Keeping you safe

We always try to do what’s best for you.

  • We explain things clearly, so you understand.
  • We listen to your worries.
  • We talk to you if we’re ever concerned about your safety.
  • If we ever need to share information to keep you safe, we’ll explain what we’re doing and why.
  • You can tell us if something or someone is making you feel unsafe.
  • You can bring someone you trust to appointments if you want to.
  • We can involve your parents or carers if you would like us to.

Need more help?

There are lots of ways to get in touch with the Worcestershire Public Health Nursing Team.