Most young people will talk to parents about health and illness, but for some teenage issues like feeling depressed, contraception or bullying, they may decide to go and talk to a doctor or nurse in confidence. Sometimes this happens because it is just too embarrassing to talk to parents about sensitive and personal matters.
All children, even those under 16, can make an appointment to see their doctor or nurse without their parents’ knowledge or consent. The doctor or nurse will keep this appointment confidential as long as they are satisfied that the young person understands what is going on. There may be occasions, such as sexual or drug abuse, where the doctor is unable to keep information confidential, but they will always discuss this first and act in the best interests of the young person.