What does Gillick competence relate to?

Gillick competence refers specifically to a child's ability to consent to their own medical treatment when they are deemed sufficiently mature and capable of understanding the nature, purpose, and potential consequences of the treatment. This legal principle emerged from the UK case Gillick v West Norfolk and Wisbech Area Health Authority, which established that adolescents, under certain circumstances, can make their own decisions about medical care without the need for parental consent.

This concept emphasizes the importance of assessing the individual child's understanding and maturity rather than relying solely on their age. Therefore, it highlights a child’s rights in healthcare contexts, allowing them to have an active role in decisions affecting their health. The other options, while related to aspects of a child's autonomy and rights, do not pertain to the healthcare context and the legal framework governing medical consent specifically like Gillick competence does.