Gillick Competence — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Correct answer: A — They may consent without additional parental consent because Gillick competence can apply before age 16.

Explanation lettering: E = shown as B · B = shown as E

A is correct. Gillick competence does not impose a fixed minimum age: a patient under 16 may give valid consent when a decision-specific assessment shows sufficient maturity and understanding of the proposed treatment, its benefits, material risks, alternatives and consequences. Additional parental consent or attendance is not legally required, although appropriate parental involvement should usually be encouraged where consistent with the young person’s wishes and interests. B is incorrect because age 16 brings a presumption of capacity but is not the earliest age at which valid consent is possible. C confuses consent with the age of legal adulthood. D and E incorrectly make parental agreement or physical presence mandatory. The competence assessment and consent discussion should be documented.

Reference: NHS England, Clinical standard – oral healthcare for autistic children and young people and/or those with a learning disability in special educational settings, Appendix 4: Consent, updated 2024. https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/clinical-standard-oral-healthcare-for-autistic-children-and-young-people-and-or-those-with-a-learning-disability-in-special-educational-settings/