Creating a fairer Britain
New law in forceThe Equality Act came into force on 1 October 2010. Some of the information on this page may be out of date.
All patients are entitled to privacy and confidentiality in health and social care, regardless of their personal circumstances. This includes young people under 16 and disabled people. If you are a disabled person and need someone with you during treatment to explain things, such as an advocate, carer or sign language interpreter, this should be allowed. Equally, if you would prefer not to have anyone else present, this should also be respected.