Consent Procedure

This policy outlines our approach to obtaining valid informed consent before providing assessment, examination, treatment or advice, in accordance with HCPC Standards and CSP Quality Assurance Standards.

Scope:

This policy applies to all physiotherapists and support staff working at our practice.

Principles

Valid consent must be:

·         Voluntary: Given freely without pressure or coercion

·         Informed: Based on sufficient information to decide

·         Given by a person with the capacity to make the decision

Process for Obtaining Consent

Initial Consent

·         Explain the assessment process and proposed treatment to the service user

·         Discuss significant benefits, risks, side effects, and alternatives

·         Provide opportunity for questions

·         Check understanding and confirm consent before proceeding

·         Document that consent has been obtained in the patient record

Ongoing Consent

·         Reconfirm consent at each session when there are changes to the treatment plan

·         Inform service users of their right to withdraw consent at any time

·         Re-evaluate consent if new information becomes available or the service user's condition changes

Written Consent

Written consent is recommended for:

·         Invasive procedures (e.g., acupuncture, injection therapy)

·         Treatment involving sensitive areas of the body

·         Video or photographic recording for clinical purposes

·         Student observation or treatment delivery

Service Users Lacking Capacity

When a service user lacks the capacity to consent:

·         Assess capacity specific to the decision

·         If capacity is lacking, identify whether someone has legal authority to consent on their behalf

·         If no one has legal authority, proceed in the service user's best interests, documenting reasons

·         Consider the person's previous wishes, beliefs and values

·         Follow local Mental Capacity Act procedures

Communication Considerations

·         Use clear, simple language avoiding jargon

·         Provide information in formats appropriate to service users' needs

·         Arrange interpreters or communication supports when needed

·         Document any communication aids used

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or following significant changes to legislation or guidance.

Policy Owner: Callum Rigg
Date: 26.08.26