At our practice, your comfort, dignity, and safety are very important to us. One way we help ensure this is by offering the use of a chaperone during certain consultations or examinations.
What is a chaperone?
A chaperone is a trained member of our team who may be present during a consultation or physical examination. Their role is to support both the patient and the clinician and to help maintain a professional and respectful environment.
Why might a chaperone be present?
A chaperone may be offered or requested in situations such as:
- When an examination is intimate or sensitive in nature
- To provide reassurance and support to the patient
- To help ensure clear communication and understanding
- To protect both patients and clinicians by maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
Who can request a chaperone?
- Patients are welcome to request a chaperone at any time
- Clinicians also have the right to request a chaperone, even if the patient does not ask for one. This is a standard and accepted part of good clinical practice
The presence of a chaperone does not mean there is a lack of trust. It is there to support everyone involved and to ensure consultations are carried out safely and respectfully.
Can a friend or family member act as a chaperone?
No. Friends and family are not permitted to act as chaperones.
Chaperones must be appropriately trained members of the practice team who understand their role and responsibilities.
Chaperone preferences
We have both male and female clinical team members and chaperones working within the practice. If you have a preference regarding the gender of your clinician or chaperone, please let us know when booking your appointment, and we will do our best to accommodate this.
Want to know more?
If you have any questions or would like more information about chaperones or your options during an appointment, please speak to our reception team, who will be happy to help.
Your comfort, privacy, and safety remain our priority at all times.