In December 2025, NHS England published "Improving chaperoning practice in the NHS: key principles and guidance". While chaperoning has long been part of primary care, this updated guidance represents a step change in expectations around competence, governance and staff support.

A chaperone is defined by the CQC as “an impartial observer, present during an intimate examination of a patient”. The chaperone plays an important role in protecting both patients and staff during intrusive and invasive examinations. They help to reassure the patient, protect their dignity, offer support and facilitate communication – this may be particularly important if there is a language barrier, for example.