Revisiting 'Fraser ruling competence' for under 16s in the UK

A test case went through the legal system and ultimately to appeal in the House of Lords. The final ruling was made by Lord Fraser who stated that the doctor should always encourage the young person to share their need for contraception with a parent or allow the doctor to do so. If the young person explained to the doctor it was not desirable or possible to discuss these matters at home given the family relationships or circumstances then the doctor takes on the responsibility for helping the young person without parental consent with information in reception areas so that young people are made aware of this. This should encourage more young people to consult doctors and nurses so that they can be given accurate information on sexual health in an open and non-judgmental way. (excerpt)