Aesthetic Services in Hawick, Scottish Borders

Duty of Candour Policy

1. Reason for Policy

Borders Aesthetics Ltd has a duty to be open and honest with patients when something goes wrong with their treatment or care. This policy outlines how we will meet our legal obligations and uphold patient trust.

2. Policy Statement and Aims

To minimise the risk of adverse outcomes, Borders Aesthetics Ltd practitioners will:

  • Clearly discuss proposed treatments, including potential risks and likelihood of complications.

  • Offer suitable alternative treatments and explain associated risks.

  • Ensure patients are fully informed to make safe, confident decisions about their care.

When an incident does occur, our aim is to communicate openly, manage the consequences responsibly, and take action to prevent recurrence.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all service users and all staff, including contractors involved in the delivery of treatment and care.

4. Procedure

In the event that something goes wrong during or following treatment at Borders Aesthetics Ltd:

  • Immediate disclosure: The patient will be informed of what has happened as soon as possible after the issue is identified.

  • Open discussion: An honest and clear explanation will be provided, detailing what went wrong, the cause (if known), and possible short- and long-term effects.

  • Apology: A sincere apology will be given in a private and respectful setting, using language the patient can understand.

  • Resolution: Where possible, a solution will be proposed to rectify the problem. If this cannot be provided in-house, the patient will be referred to another appropriate healthcare professional for further support and treatment.

5. Reporting

Following an incident, Borders Aesthetics Ltd will:

  • Record the incident in the patient’s clinical notes, including the date, time, and nature of the event.

  • Reflect on the circumstances through clinical supervision, peer support, or external review to identify learning outcomes.

  • Implement action plans to improve practice and prevent recurrence.

  • Report incidents related to adverse drug reactions or medical devices through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme where applicable.

6. Annual Duty of Candour Report

Borders Aesthetics Ltd is committed to transparency and learning and is legally required to prepare and publish an Annual Duty of Candour Report.

  • The report will include:

    • The number and type of incidents triggering the duty of candour.

    • A summary of actions taken to learn from and respond to these events.

    • Any changes made to policies, procedures, or training as a result.

    • Confirmation if no incidents have occurred during the reporting year (nil return).

  • Publication requirements:

    • The report will be completed at the end of each financial year.

    • It will be:

      • Published on the clinic’s website, and/or

      • Displayed visibly in the reception or waiting area, accessible to all service users.

This approach ensures that patients and the public are kept informed of our commitment to safety and improvement.

7. References