Is the service confidential?
Yes. All information about clients is held in confidence at Family Planning clinics. We will not give out any information about you without getting your consent to do so.
Can I attend any drop-in clinic?
Yes. You may attend any walk-in clinic if you cannot get to your own clinic for some reason. However, it is better if you try to attend the clinic that holds your records. There are 18 Walk-In clinics held each week as well as number of specialist services. Turn over for a full list of Walk-In clinics.
Are there specific clinics for young people?
Yes. There are four clinics which are for young people (see reverse) although young people are welcome at all our clinics.
I am under 16 is the service still confidential?
Yes. All information about clients is held in confidence at Family Planning clinics. We will not give out any information about you without getting your consent to do so.
How long will I need to wait?
Walk-in clinics operate on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, without the need for an appointment. This is what most of our clients want, but it does mean that you may have to wait to see a nurse or a doctor. The length of time you wait may vary because we cannot predict how long each consultation will take.
This is my first visit what should I expect?
Normally a nurse will discuss your reason for attending and take a full medical history. After your initial consultation the nurse may then refer you to the clinic doctor who will go over your medical history and answer any questions you may have. The doctor will also need to see you if this is your first visit for any contraceptive method apart from condoms.
Do I need an internal examination?
Not usually. You will need an internal examination if you are attending for a cervical smear test or if you have any concerns about abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge or pelvic pain.
Will you tell my GP I’ve visited the clinic?
No. It is not normal for us to pass information to your GP unless the doctor or nurse thinks it is in your interest and has discussed this with you. However, copies of cervical smear results are routinely sent to GPs to be kept with your medical records.
What service is available at Walk-In clinics?
Walk in clinics offer a variety of services including contraceptive advice and prescribing, advice about how to have a healthy baby, cervical smear screening, pregnancy testing, and referrals for termination of pregnancy.
Will a doctor always see me?
No. You may be seen by one or two members of clinic staff, depending on the nature of your visit and the experience of the member of staff you first see. The nurse may be able to help you without having to refer you to a doctor (e.g. if you need a repeat prescription of a pill you have been taking for a while or require a pregnancy test). All our doctors and nurses have had specialist training and are able to help with most issues relating to Family Planning. Occasionally, the doctor may need to refer you to a consultant or specialist service.
Will anyone else be present (a chaperone) when I have my examination?
On occasion it might be necessary for the doctor or nurse to carry out an internal examination. Please ask the doctor or nurse if you would like someone to be present (chaperone you) during the examination. If you are anticipating an internal examination or smear, you may bring a relative or friend to be present during the examination if you wish.
I think I may have a sexually transmitted infection can you treat me?
No. Walk-In family planning clinics do not have the facility to screen for, or treat, sexually transmitted infections. This service is provided at genito-urinary medicine (GUM) departments within larger hospitals.
Read more about our GUM services
