Gillick competency assessment (to help assess whether a child has the maturity to make their own decisions and to understand the implications of those decisions) Child's age? Maturity? Mental capacity? Is the child being pressured or influenced by someone else? Does the child understand the issue and what it involves - including advantages, disadvantages and potential long-term impact? Does the child understand the risks, implications and consequences that may arise from their decision? How well does the child understand the advice and information they have been given? Does the child understand any alternative options (if available)? Does the child have the ability to explain a rationale around their reasoning and decision making? Is the child considered Gillick competent to make all relevant decisions? Would an opinion of a colleague be helpful? (Notes: Gillick competency can be used when young people wish to refuse medical treatment. However, if a young person refuses treatment which may lead to their death or severe permanent harm, their decision can be overruled. A child/young person has the right to seek a second opinion from another medical professional.) Fraser guidelines (specifically for advice and treatment about contraception and sexual health) Child protection referral required as sexual activity with a child under 13 years of age? Can the young person not be persuaded to inform their parents or carers that they are seeking this advice or treatment (or to allow the practitioner to inform their parents or carers)? Does the young person understand the advice being given? Does the young person's physical or mental health or both are likely to suffer unless they receive the advice or treatment? Is in the young person's best interests to receive the advice, treatment or both without their parents' or carers' consent? Is the young person very likely to continue having sex with or without contraceptive treatment? Reference(s): NSPCC (2020): Gillick competency and Fraser guidelines