We have also included information about when a child or teen`s consent (in addition to parental consent) must be obtained and what to do if a parent or caregiver does not want to give consent to an activity. Children under the age of 16 may consent to their own treatment if they are considered to have sufficient intelligence, competence and understanding to fully understand what is associated with their treatment. This is called Gillick-competent. Otherwise, a person with parental responsibility may agree with them. Persons aged 16 and over have the right to consent to their own treatment. This can only be cancelled in exceptional cases. If a parent refuses to consent to particular treatment, that decision may be overturned by the courts if the treatment is considered to be in the best interests of the child. In an emergency situation where treatment is vital and waiting for parental consent would put the child at risk, treatment may continue without consent. According to the law, health professionals only need 1 person with parental responsibility to give their consent to treatment. A person with parental responsibility must be able to give consent. Any organization that offers activities for children and youth must obtain the consent of parents or caregivers in order for their child to participate. It is also important to collect the necessary information to ensure the safety of children during the activity.
We`ve created this sample consent form that you need to adapt to the context of your organization. This will help you gather the information you need. If no agreement can be reached on a particular treatment or on what is in the best interests of the child, the courts can make a decision. If a young person refuses treatment that could result in death or permanent serious injury, his or her decision may be overturned by the Court of Protection. In cases where 1 parent does not agree with the treatment, doctors are often not willing to go against their wishes and will try to reach an agreement.