We are committed to providing a safe, comfortable environment where patients and staff can be confident that best practice is being followed at all times and the safety of everyone is of paramount importance.

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they consider one is required. The chaperone may be a family member or friend, but on occasions a formal chaperone may be preferred.

When booking an appointment, please let the team member know if you require a chaperone to accompany you to your consultation with a clinician. This way, arrangements can be made and the appointment is not delayed. The doctor or nurse may also require a chaperone to be present for certain consultations.

All trained chaperones understand their role and responsibilities and are competent to perform that role. There is no common definition of a chaperone and their role varies considerably depending on the needs of the patient, the healthcare professional and the examination being carried out.

Their role can be considered in any of the following areas:

• Emotional comfort and reassurance to patients
• Assist in examination (e.g. during IUCD insertion)
• Assist in undressing
• Act as interpreter
• Protection to the healthcare professional against allegations / attack