Key Points

Please take a moment to review these points, reflect on their significance and consider how they apply to your own experiences.

Tick to confirm (optional):

• Use Gillick competence to assess whether a child (under 16) can consent independently by testing understanding, reasoning and voluntariness.
• Apply the Mental Capacity Act 2005 principles for adults: assess understanding, retention, weighing information and communication of choice at the time of decision.
• Use practical techniques to aid understanding: simple steps, demonstrations (trial frames, sample lenses), teach-back and visual/tactile aids.
• Allow time and reassessment where capacity may fluctuate; consider rest, repeat explanations or short delays before concluding lack of capacity.
• If a child is competent encourage parental involvement for ongoing supply and financial responsibility, but competence permits independent consent.
• If an adult lacks capacity involve carers or legal decision‑makers and make best‑interests decisions, documenting rationale and steps taken.
• Document contemporaneously: assessment findings, information given, who was involved, decisions made and reasons to demonstrate accountability.
• Record concerns about coercion or pressure and follow safeguarding/escalation procedures where appropriate.