We aim to offer services which are ‘teenage-friendly’. In summary, this means that:
- We welcome teenagers and aim to put them at ease when they come to the practice
- We can assure teenagers that confidentiality will be maintained if aged 12-16, and they ask to keep details of their consultations confidential or if they consult us about potentially sensitive issues
- Teenagers are welcome to see a Doctor on their own if they wish and are aged 12-16. We would however advise them to come with an adult where possible
Like adults, young people (aged 16 or 17) are presumed to have sufficient capacity to decide on their own medical treatment, unless there’s significant evidence to suggest otherwise.
Children under the age of 16 can consent to their own treatment if they’re believed to have enough intelligence, competence and understanding to fully appreciate what’s involved in their treatment. This is known as being Gillick competent.
Sexual health advice is available, as is advice on other issues such as depression, drugs, alcohol and self-harm and we can advise teenagers about emergency contraception if required.
Guidance & Support for Young People
Kooth
Free, safe and anonymous ONLINE support for young people. Kooth allows you to talk to friendly counsellors, get self-help guidance, and access community support near you.
Website: www.kooth.com
ChatHealth
Children and young people aged 11 – 19year (in year 7 and above) can connect with School Nurses about health-related matters via a confidential and anonymous text messaging service called ChatHealth.
Text: 07480 635511
Website: https://chathealth.nhs.uk/
Number 18
Number 18 (previously Quay Advice Centre), located in Poole Town Centre, provides confidential information and advice for Young People aged 12 to 19 (or 25 if they have a special educational need). Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) can also be offered to young people aged 16-19 who are not in education, employment or training.
Website: www.poolefamilyinformationdirectory.com/kb5/poole/fis/service.page?id=hInFL6312Sc
Speak UP
Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to someone close to you or to know where to get the advice and support that you need. Sometimes you just need information and advice! Speak UP will give you someone independent to talk to; offering support to help you find a solution to deal with any questions, worries or problems that you may have.
Website: www.upinbcp.co.uk/explore-up/speak-up/
CAMHS Resources
This site was created for young people, carers and professionals. It pool’s together lots of helpful resources from across the internet, that are available to help support your mental health and well-being.
Website: www.camhs-resources.co.uk/
HappyMaps
HappyMaps is an advice website for parents who are worried about their children’s behaviour and/or mental health issues. There is also a self-help page for children and young people. All the available resources have been drawn from those currently recommended by experts and parents.
Website: www.happymaps.co.uk/