Health services

General health services

General practitioners

It's important that you register with your nearest general practitioner (GP). They can help with a wide range of health issues, including general health advice, contraception, maternity services, and vaccinations.

If the GP cannot help, they might refer you to a hospital for tests or treatment, or to specialist services if you need them.

Find your nearest GP practice.

Maternity services

You should contact your midwife or your GP as soon as you know you are pregnant.

Women can give birth in their home, or any maternity unit or birthing centre they choose. You can self-refer for maternity care or see your GP to make a referral. To self-refer, visit your chosen hospital in person, or look on their website.

It's important that you see a midwife by 10 weeks of your pregnancy so you know all the essential information and are able to have the proper tests and scans.

Health visitors

The health visiting service is automatically told if you have a baby. They will usually visit you 10 to 14 days after you give birth.

If your baby is diagnosed with a medical condition that needs extra support, all appropriate services will usually be told at the time of diagnosis. Your health visitor will be able to support you if you have concerns later on about your child's development.

For information on your health visitor, visit your local children's centre.

School nursing service

Every school has a named school nurse who:

• gives specialist advice to children and their families
• provides immunisations in school
• assists with infectious outbreaks closely linking with Health Protection Agency colleagues
• supports national and local strategies for improving health

Vaccinations and immunisations

Childhood vaccinations are offered free on the NHS to all children. The first injections are due when your baby is 2 months old.

You should make sure your child has their routine vaccinations at the right age. This will protect them as early as possible and minimise the risk of infection.

For more information, see the NHS vaccination timetable.

Healthy Start scheme

If you’re pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be eligible for free vitamins and money to spend on fruit, vegetables, pulses and milk.

For more information, see Healthy Start.