Chaperone Policy
We want every patient to feel comfortable, safe and respected during their appointment.
What is a chaperone?
A chaperone is someone who can be present during your assessment or treatment to support you, observe what is happening, and help you feel comfortable. This can be a friend or family member you bring with you, or, where appropriate, a member of our clinic staff.
Your rights
- You can bring a chaperone of your own choosing to any appointment — just let us know in advance if possible.
- You can ask a member of staff to be present at any point during your appointment. Whilst one may not always be available, sensitive aspects of examination can be delayed to an appointment when there is, or adaptations made so you are more comfortable
- If there are any limitations to adapting or delaying assessment this will be clearly explained so you are fully informed and in control of what happens.
- You can request a chaperone, or change your mind, at any time — even part-way through an appointment.
- You can decline a chaperone if one is offered to you; this is entirely your choice. (Be aware that there are parts of assessment a Therapist may only do with a chaperone present, but this would be explained to you)
- If you would feel more comfortable being seen by a clinician of a particular sex, please tell us — we will do our best to accommodate this.
What to expect
- Your clinician will always explain why an examination or treatment is needed, what it involves, and ask for your consent before proceeding. Always ask if you are unsure.
- If your assessment requires exposure of an area of your body, this will be explained clearly beforehand, and only the area being treated will be exposed.
- Any chaperone present will be recorded in your clinical notes, along with whether you accepted or declined the offer.
Children and young people
Patients under16 should normally be accompanied by a parent or guardian. In some circumstances, a young person under16 may be able to consent to treatment independently — please speak to your clinician if you have any questions about this. The parent or guardian will complete a ‘Parental consent formprior to assessment that outlines key details and differences for children.
Have a concern?
If you are ever uncomfortable with any part of your appointment, please tell your clinician or a member of our reception team straight away. You can also speak to the practice owner directly. Get in touch at team@southampton-physio.co.uk and ask for a call back to discuss your concern.
This guide accompanies the Southampton Physio Chaperone Policy, available on request.