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Letters and templates

Write down information-sharing preferences

A care team may ask the person’s permission before discussing their care with you. This template helps them prepare their own preferences to discuss and confirm with the team.

The choices belong to the person receiving care

They can use this themselves or ask someone to help write it. They may want some information shared and other details kept private. Agree who, what and when, rather than assuming permission covers everything.

Take the draft to the care team. Ask how they will confirm and record the person’s choices, when information might be shared without permission and how to change or withdraw permission. The service may need its own form.

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This is a conversation template, not confirmed consent or authority to make treatment decisions. It is for adults. Local law and service requirements apply; the source guidance below is for England. For someone under 18, see consent and confidentiality for teenagers.

If the person cannot make this decision, do not fill it in as though they have agreed. Ask the team how the relevant decision-making law applies; see mental capacity. You can still raise concerns with services without this template.

This page does not send or save your entries. Copy, download or print the draft before leaving. Your browser may restore fields when you return, so use “Clear entries and draft” on a shared device.

Write the details

Use your own words. Leave a box blank if you want a prompt to complete later.

Names, relationships and contact details. Add private contact details after downloading if you prefer.

Be specific: for example, appointment arrangements or the agreed care plan.

For example, help with appointments; routinely or only in particular circumstances.

Any limits or information the person does not want shared.

A date, appointment or change in circumstances.

Why we say this: sources and explanations
  1. Recording information-sharing preferences

    GOV.UK: SHARE guidance (England) explains partial permission, recording choices and circumstances where information may need to be shared without consent. This original worksheet is not a government or NHS consent form and does not decide whether consent is valid.

    Back to the advice

Independent information, not a medical or crisis service. This guidance has not been clinically reviewed. How we use sources.

Last full source check: 2 October 2026