Read through the scenario below, think about what would you do and then check our expert advice to see if we agree. 

Case on parental consent

A woman brought her two-year-old niece in for a sight test as she was concerned she had a squint – and I think that this could indeed be the case. She told me the parents didn’t know she was there, and she did not want them to find out.

Can I carry out a sight test and, if needed, dispense glasses without parental consent? If consent is required, what form should I ask for?