CP2 Chaperone for children and young people

It is important that children and young people are provided with chaperones. Remember that we do not scan anyone under 16 years old and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult and a chaperone.

The GMC guidance states that a relative or friend of the client is not an impartial observer and so would not be a suitable chaperone.

There may be circumstances when a young person does not wish to have a chaperone. In a Window to the Womb or firstScan clinic, the declining of the chaperone would result in the scan being abandoned.

All staff must be aware that chaperones are to protect both clients and staff

Dr Myles Bradbury worked as a consultant in Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. In 2014, he admitted abusing 18 boys in his care.

The hospital investigation found staff believed that a chaperone was there to protect the medical professional.

They did not realise a chaperone was there to protect the patient as well.

BBC News