I don't want this treatment, or I wasn't told the risks
If you have capacity, you can refuse any treatment, even if refusing could harm you. Doctors must tell you about the risks that matter to you, not just the risks they think matter.
The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read.
Your rights
- To refuse treatment, including life-sustaining treatment, if you have capacity.
- To be told about any material risks, and about reasonable alternatives (including doing nothing).
- To take time to decide, and to ask questions.
- To change your mind at any time before treatment.
- To ask for a second opinion. It isn't a legal right, but it's usually agreed.
What to do next
- Write down your questions before the appointment.
- Ask: 'What are the risks for someone like me?' and 'What happens if I wait?'
- If you want to refuse future treatment, consider making an advance decision.
- If you weren't told about a risk that then happened, get legal advice. You may have a claim.
Say this
“Before I decide, please explain the risks, the alternatives, and what would happen if I did nothing.”
The law behind it (England)
- Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board [2015] UKSC 11informed consent and material risks
- Mental Capacity Act 2005capacity and advance decisions
- Human Rights Act 1998Article 8: bodily autonomy
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- Montgomery is a Scottish case and applies across the UK. Incapacity is covered by the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000.
- Wales
- The same consent law applies in Wales.
- Northern Ireland
- The same consent principles apply in Northern Ireland.
Easy Read
What you need to know
- You decide about your own treatment.
- You can say no.
- Doctors must tell you about the risks that matter to you.
- You can take time to decide.
What you can do
- Ask: “What are the risks? What else can I do?”
- Ask for a second opinion.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.