ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the requirements of a valid consent for a child under 16 years old. To be able to consent to medical treatment, the child must be deemed Gillick-competent/have the capacity to consent. Irrespective of the child's level of competence to consent to treatment, it is important that the practitioner makes every effort to respect the child and their developing autonomy by engaging them in discussions about their treatment, listening to their views and interpreting their fears. The chapter then describes the importance of involving children in treatment decisions. The competent child under 16 years old, and young person aged 16–17 years of age, can have their refusal to consent to treatment overruled by the Court or a proxy with parental responsibility. The Court or a proxy (person with parental responsibility) can give consent to treatment on behalf of a child under 16 years old who is not competent to give consent.
