FAQs
How do I make an appointment?
If you find yourself with an unwanted pregnancy and wish to make an appointment for a consultation or an abortion, you can call us between 8am and 8pm 7 days a week. In some areas you may need to be referred to us by your local family planning clinic or your doctor but we can inform you of this.
Do I have to pay for my abortion?
In the UK 94% of all abortions are available on the NHS. We work in partnership with the NHS and offer fully funded abortions for women. We also offer private treatments for those not funded by the NHS. Call us and we will tell you know if you can receive your abortion on the NHS.
If you are travelling to our clinics from Northern Ireland or from countries outside the UK including the Republic of Ireland you will need to pay privately for your treatment.
Is the consultation necessary if I already know what I want to do?
Yes, we need to gather your medical history to make sure you are medically fit to receive an abortion. You will also receive an ultrasound scan to find out how many weeks pregnant you are as this is needed to determine what treatment you can receive. There is also a legal requirement that you see a doctor who must agree that an abortion is necessary.
How long will I be at the Clinic for?
Your time at the Clinic will depend on:
a) Whether you have already received a consultation with your family planning clinic
b) Whether you are having the abortion pill or a surgical procedure
c) What gestation you are if you are having a surgical procedure
Generally we would estimate around 2 ½ hours for a consultation and part 1 of the abortion pill treatment and 4 – 5 hours for a consultation followed by a surgical abortion.
Will I be judged on my decision to have an abortion
No; all our staff are specifically trained and experienced in helping women through this difficult time. You will be offered support and advice. You will not be judged or asked to justify your reasons for wanting an abortion. We will respect your privacy and dignity at all times.
I have young children; can I bring them with me?
Unfortunately we do not allow children at the clinics so you must arrange childcare for the day of your appointment. Failure to do so may mean we have to rebook your appointment or treatment.
Do you share my information with other people?
Any contact you have with us or any treatment you receive is completely confidential. Even if you are under 16 years old; we will not tell anyone unless we have your permission to do so. We will only share your details with other health professionals or NHS organisations if we believe that you are at serious risk of harm. We will always tell you if we think we need to do this.
Can I bring someone with me on the day?
Yes; you may find having the support of a loved one or friend will help you through the day. However, they will not be able to be with you during the treatment and consultation. Space is limited so we have to restrict visitors to one per patient. If you are under 18 years old we will always ask you to bring a parent or a responsible adult who is over 18 with you. If you are under 16 years and you wish to be accompanied throughout your treatment, please let a member of our team know.
I don’t speak English can you help me?
If you do not speak English we will organise for a trained independent interpreter to support you during your time at the Clinic. We apologise but we do not allow partners, relatives or friends to provide interpretation on your behalf.
I’m under 16 years old; will you tell my doctor or parents that I have been to the Clinic?
Your consultation and treatment with us will be kept completely confidential, even if you are under 16 years old. We would only inform another person or organisation about your treatment if we felt that you were in danger or you were being harmed in any way. However, we would discuss this with you before we did so.
