Accessing GP (doctor) surgeries and NHS health visitors

How to register with a GP (doctor) surgery and get advice from NHS health visitors for parents and carers of children aged from birth to 5 years.

How to register with a GP (doctor) surgery

Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery to access NHS services. It's free to register.

Children under 16 need to be registered by their parent or guardian. This usually means filling in a separate form. You may also be asked to provide a form of ID to prove that you're their parent or guardian.

GP surgeries are usually the first contact if you have a health problem. They can treat many conditions and give health advice. They can also refer you to other NHS services.

Guidance from the NHS states that if you’re worried about a symptom and not sure what help you need, NHS 111 can tell you what to do next. Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

For a life-threatening emergency call 999.

Advice from NHS health visitors for parents and carers of children aged from birth to 5 years

The health visiting team offers children and families routine health and development reviews, as well as additional support when it's needed.

The service also provides a text service for advice and support.