Chaperones and companions

Bringing someone for support

A trusted person can help you feel comfortable, listen to explanations or help you communicate. Tell the clinic if you plan to bring someone, particularly if you need help with access, communication or understanding information. For a home visit, let your physiotherapist know who will be present.

Your companion is there with your agreement and should respect your privacy and choices.
A friend or relative is not automatically a trained, impartial chaperone or authorised to make care decisions for you.
If you would prefer to speak privately for part of the appointment, tell your physiotherapist.

If you want a formal chaperone

A formal chaperone has an impartial role during an examination or treatment and needs suitable training. Bringing a companion does not replace that role. As Nexus does not currently provide this service, contact the clinic before booking if a formal chaperone is important or necessary for your care.

If safe and appropriate care requires a formal chaperone, that examination or treatment needs suitable alternative arrangements before it can proceed. A companion is not a replacement for a required formal chaperone.
Do not assume that a formal chaperone will be available at the appointment or arranged automatically.

Your consent and comfort

Your physiotherapist should explain what an assessment or treatment involves before you agree to it. Ask about clothing, positioning, privacy or any part you are uncomfortable with. You can ask to pause or stop, and discuss another approach.

Tell us in advance if the appointment is for a child or someone who needs support with decisions or communication, so consent and support can be discussed.
Raise any concern about dignity, privacy or conduct with the clinic using our complaints procedure.