If you are going to be treated at the Leicester Fertility Centre, both partners will be given a short questionnaire to help us to assess the interests of any child that may result from such treatment. Under the HF&E Act (1990) and Code of Practice of the HFEA, all assisted conception units have a major obligation in law to take account of the welfare of any child who may be born as a result of licensed treatment, as well as the affect this may have on any other existing children. This includes a child's need for a father or for someone else who is able to share the responsibility for meeting this need.

If there are any concerns regarding welfare of the child issues, then enquiry is made from your G.P(s) to ask if the surgery have any relevant information relating to welfare of child issues.

An information leaflet from the HFEA is provided for you to give to your GP that explains the purpose of the enquiry.

In some instances the centre may need to seek your permission to approach other sources for information. The rare decision to refuse treatment is only made after extensive discussion with the centre and (with your permission) any other appropriate persons.

The Leicester Fertility Centre is required to repeat the welfare of child assessment if there has been a gap of two years or more since your last attendance on the unit, there has been a change of partner, you have had a child since the previous assessment, or if there has been a significant change in your medical or social circumstances.

You will appreciate that the situation could arise where it would be considered to be irresponsible and potentially harmful to assist in the conception of a child that may later be at serious risk.