Healthcare

If you are unwell or need to get medical care, you usually need to start with a local doctor/physician known as a GP (general practitioner). They don’t work in a hospital, instead you will find them in a ‘GP surgery’ or ‘GP practice’. GP practices are private businesses that work within the NHS (National Health Service). Some offer more services than others.

GP services are usually free. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from. If you are visiting someone or are in the UK on a short-term visa, you can register as a temporary resident. Registering with a GP is free. When you register you will be given an NHS number, which helps you access other medical services.

You can choose the GP you think will be best for you, for example because it is near your home or workplace. Or you can choose an online NHS GP service that uses video calling. This can be convenient, but be aware that there might be some services that you cannot get with an online GP, for example home visits.

There are also some private GPs, which you would have to pay for. However, they may provide a faster service. Search online for private GPs.

• Read more about how the GP system works
• Find out more about registering for an NHS GP on the NHS website.

The NHS is the National Health Service. It is mainly paid for by general taxes and National Insurance contributions.

Many basic services are free for everyone (for instance, seeing a local doctor/physician, called a GP). It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from. Emergency care is also free for everyone.

Hospital care is usually only free for people who legally live in the UK (known as ‘ordinarily resident’). This includes people on a visa. Read more in the section below, Official language explained).

If a doctor gives you medicine, you often have to contribute some money, called a prescription charge. You probably also need to pay for opticians and dentists. There is help if you cannot afford these charges (see below).

Be aware that NHS care can be slow sometimes and the quality can vary between different areas and even within the same hospital.

People who are not classed as ‘ordinarily resident’ might be charged for NHS care, except for free services, which are:

• ambulances
• GP services
• treatment for serious infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and measles
• treatment of sexually transmitted diseases
• contraception
• treatment for mental or physical injuries caused by torture, domestic violence, sexual violence or female genital mutilation.
• the NHS 111 telephone service
• end of life (palliative) care

If you have a minor health problem, going to the GP is not always the best option. GP surgeries are often very busy and you might not be able to get an appointment immediately. Depending on your problem, these options might help:

• Speak to a pharmacist. Pharmacies (sometimes called ‘chemists’) offer advice and treatments for common medical problems like colds and flu, cystitis, earache and skin rashes. Many also offer free health services such as treatment for chronic pain, asthma, and diabetes.
• Go to the NHS website, which can suggest treatments for illnesses and answer questions about medicines:

• Call the NHS 111 telephone number (in Wales call 0845 46 47). They have doctors who can help you over the phone.
• If you have a long-term health problem, there might be a charity with a specialist phone helpline. Some helplines are available 24 hours a day. Search online.
• If you have a sexual health or contraception problem, there are special sexual health clinics that can help. Search for one near you on the NHS website.
• If you have a problem that could be related to muscles or posture (for example a sports injury), it can be quicker to pay for a private osteopath or physiotherapist appointment, if you can afford it.
• If you have a problem with your eyes, you might be able to get care in a local optician using the NHS Minor Eye Conditions Service. Ask your GP surgery for details. If you get some grit stuck in your eye, you can usually go to an optician for help.

Unless it is an emergency, contact your GP. Depending on how serious the GP thinks your mental health problem is, you might get suggestions for ways to work through it with self-help methods, or will be offered therapy or medication. GPs can also refer you to specialist doctors. Be aware this can be a very long and slow process because mental health is not well funded by the NHS.

• There are many charities that might be able to help. See the list of mental health charities on the NHS website.
• If you need to speak to a doctor quickly, dial 111 (in Wales call 0845 46 47)
• If a life is at risk, go to the nearest A&E (hospital accident and emergency department), or dial 999 if you need an ambulance.

The NHS is amazing because of the amount of free care it offers and its expertise in treating complex illnesses. However, it is not unusual to wait for months (or even over 1 year) for non-urgent medical care, for example a hip replacement.

The only way to get faster care is to pay for it.

• If you would like private medical insurance (often called ‘health insurance’), there are many companies that offer it, search online.
• It is also possible to pay for private treatment, without having insurance. People spent over £1bn paying for private treatment in the UK in 2019. See www.privatehealth.co.uk for details of private services.
• For people who cannot afford standard health insurance, there is a not-for-profit organisation called Benenden that offers a faster service for many health conditions.

You don’t need to prove your address to register with a GP (local doctor). For example, you can explain you are a ‘temporary resident’, or that you live in a caravan or canal boat, or that you have ‘no fixed abode’ (homeless).

It is helpful to have some form of identification (for example a passport or birth certificate).

You cannot be refused care because you are homeless or do not have proof of address or identification. However, some GP surgeries do not have space for new patients.

Care from NHS GPs is free. There is a charge for medicines, but if you do not have enough money, you can apply to get free medicine using the Low Income scheme.

• See more information on the NHS website.

If you are worried about being in a room on your own with a doctor, you can ask for a chaperone. You can also ask for a male or female doctor if you have a preference.

The reception team at GP surgeries will ask you questions to make sure they get the right person to help you. They are not being nosey.
If you feel uncomfortable talking to them because you feel others might overhear, you can ask for a private room, or you can write the answers down instead.

Cosmetic surgery includes any surgery not performed for health reasons. This includes minor surgery such as the removal of cysts and skin tags, as well as more extreme surgery, like breast enhancement.

Cosmetic surgery is not usually provided by the NHS (National Health Service).

The law allows any doctor to do cosmetic surgery, without extra training. This means it can be difficult to know if the doctor has the right skills for complex operations. Make sure anyone you choose to do your cosmetic surgery has good insurance.

• The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) has a list of surgeons with proven skills and knowledge.
• See www.privatehealth.co.uk for details of private services.

If you are wanting ‘aesthetic treatments’ such as thread lifts, non-surgical eye lifts, fillers or botox, it is important to find someone who is properly trained and fully insured.

• Save Face is a national government-approved register of non-surgical treatment practitioners.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) gives information about the quality of health services, both in the community and in hospitals.

This includes mental health services, services for children or the elderly, ambulances, dentists and doctors.

• Go to the CQC website to search services near you.

It is always best to speak to the people who are treating you. All NHS departments should have their own complaints system.
If you are in hospital, you can also speak to PALS (the Patient Advice & Liaison Service) in the hospital.

• For primary care NHS complaints (doctors, dentists, opticians and pharmacists), contact NHS England or NHS Scotland.
• For secondary care NHS complaints (hospitals, mental health services, community services or the 111 service) you need the local Clinical Commissioning Group for your local area.
• • For private healthcare complaints, try ISCAS.
• • For a complaint about a specific doctor (NHS or private), you could contact the General Medical Council.
• • For complaints about a specific dental professional, there is a General Dental Council.
• • For eye care, the Optical Consumer Complaints Service might be able to help.

If a life is at risk, you can call an ambulance by dialling 999.

There is no charge for this service. Paramedics on board can start medical treatment straight away.

You can also drive to the A&E (accident and emergency) department of the nearest hospital if you are sure this will be a quicker way to get care. Be aware that not all hospitals have an A&E department.

If it is not an emergency, but you need medical help as soon as possible, other options are:

• Go the NHS 111 website. It will give you advice about what medical care you might need. Do not use this site if you are worried about a child under the age of 5 – call the 111 telephone number instead (in Wales call 0845 46 47).

• Call the NHS 111 telephone number (in Wales call 0845 46 47). They have doctors who can help you over the phone.
• Visit your nearest Urgent Treatment Centre. They will move you to A&E if necessary. Do not visit one of these centres if you think you might have a highly infectious disease. Call 111 instead (in Wales call 0845 46 47).

A&E is the Accident & Emergency department of hospitals. It is sometimes called ‘Casualty’ or ‘Emergency Room’. It should only be used for real, life-threatening emergencies, for example:

• choking
• chest pain
• unconsciousness
• severe burns
• severe allergic reactions
• stroke
• fits
• serious accidents
• serious loss of blood

There is usually an excellent level of care in A&E, but expect a long wait if your problem is not a life-threatening emergency. It can easily take 4 hours to see a doctor. It might be difficult to get food or drink while you are there.

The NHS App (for smart phones) has details of waiting times in local hospitals.

Although treatment in A&E is free, you might have to pay a prescription charge if you are given medicine. You don’t need to pay immediately.

For less urgent medical care (for example, an injury to your arm), consider using an Urgent Treatment Centre instead.

For non-urgent care, see your GP.

• Read NHS guidance about when to go to A&E.

An Urgent Treatment Centre (sometimes called a walk-in centre, urgent care centre or minor injuries unit) is somewhere that can treat urgent, but not life-threatening medical problems.

For example:

• minor head injuries
• suspected broken arms or legs
• sprains
• minor burns
• bites and stings
• fevers in adults and children
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• skin rashes
• emergency contraception

They are usually open at least 12 hours a day. Not all hospitals offer this service.

Do not visit one of these centres if you think you might have a highly infectious disease, such as COVID19, measles, flu or norovirus (Winter Vomiting Disease). Call 111 instead (in Wales call 0845 46 47).

You might have to pay a prescription charge if you are given medicine.

• Read NHS guidance about when to go to an Urgent Treatment Centre.

If you are visiting the UK for less than 6 months, make sure you have private medical insurance in case you need hospital treatment or have to be flown home.

This also applies to British citizens who live abroad.

You will be charged for all NHS care when you use it, except for free services, which are:

• ambulances
• GP services
• treatment for serious infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and measles
• treatment of sexually transmitted diseases
• contraception
• treatment for mental or physical injuries caused by torture, domestic violence, sexual violence or female genital mutilation.
• the NHS 111 telephone service
• end of life (palliative) care

If you are asked to pay for emergency hospital care and you do not, it is possible it will affect your chance of getting a visa if you wish to visit Britain another time.

• Read NHS guidance about visiting England. NHS Wales and NHS Scotland might have different rules.

If you are applying for a UK visa lasting over 6 months, you will probably have to pay a contribution towards the NHS medical care you might need when you are here. This is called the IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge).

The IHS usually allows you to access NHS care in the same way as a British national living in the UK.

The cost rose to £625 in October 2020. There is a cheaper rate for students. You must pay the full amount for the length of your visa, in one payment. Read more on the main government website.

You need to pay the IHS even if you have private medical insurance. Be aware the IHS will not pay to fly you home or give you private medical care.

The IHS does not cover prescription charges, dental treatment, eye tests or help getting pregnant.

Some people do not need to pay the IHS. This includes people working in the health or care sector (including hospitals and care homes). It also people applying to live in the UK permanently, diplomats, victims of slavery or human trafficking, and asylum seekers (see the main government website for the full list).

• There is more information about medical charges when you move to the UK on the main government website.

Be aware that if you are living in England or Wales, after 1 year you will be automatically considered as an organ donor if you were to die. If you don’t want this to happen, you need to register as a non-donor.

People who are classed as ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK do not need to pay (see the section about official language).

When you go to a hospital, overseas visitors are usually asked to answer a questionnaire. This includes British citizens who live abroad. The hospital will use your answers to decide if you must pay for your treatment.

Your first step is to register with a GP surgery near you. You will need to bring a letter from the doctor/psychiatrist in your own country explaining your medical condition and the treatment. This letter needs to be in English. Make an appointment with the GP to discuss your needs.

Be aware the NHS is not always able to provide the same medicines that are available abroad. For this reason you may want to bring a supply of your medicine with you. Make sure you check that you can take the medicine through customs.

You can ask if there is anyone who speaks your language in the GP surgery or hospital. Alternatively, do you have a friend or relative who can help? If not, try using a translation app, like Google Translate.

When a doctor prescribes medication, you are given a special sheet of paper called a ‘prescription’. The prescription lists the medicine you need and instructions for the pharmacist. You must take the prescription to a pharmacy of your choice in order to collect the medicine.

In England, there is usually a prescription charge (about £9 per item) when you collect the medication. It is not payment for the medication. Instead, it is a contribution towards costs.

The prescription charge is the same for all types of medicine, although some medicines do not have prescription charges (including contraceptives and emergency hospital medicine).

Pay for a whole year of prescriptions

You can pay prescription charges each time you get a prescription, or you can pay for a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) that covers all the medication you are prescribed in a year or 3-month period. If you use a lot of medicine, this can be cheaper than paying each time. Read more on the main government website.

• In Scotland and Wales, prescriptions are usually free for residents.

Not everyone in England has to pay NHS prescription charges.

For example, you can get free prescriptions if you are under 16, aged over 60, are pregnant or have just had a baby.

People claiming some types of state welfare payments or who are suffering from some types of medical condition can also get free prescriptions.

• There is an easy online way to check if you might be able to get help. See the checker on the NHS Business Services website.

If you have a medicine that needs to be taken for a long time (asthma medicine or the contraceptive pill, for example) you can usually get a new prescription without having to see the doctor each time. This is called a ‘repeat prescription’. Repeat prescriptions usually last 6 months or 12 months.

For some medicines, you cannot have a repeat prescription and will need to make an appointment to see your GP again.

• If there is a prescription charge, you can choose to pay it every three months or once a year. This usually works out cheaper. Read more about Prescription Prepayment Certificates on the main government website.

Many local pharmacies will bring your prescriptions to your home. Ask them for details, they are usually very helpful.

You can also register to have prescriptions brought to your home, workplace or convenient place. This system is called EPS (electronic prescription service). You need to check that your GP surgery offers EPS. They will tell you how to join.

• The NHS website has more details about EPS.

Yes it is possible to buy general health medication and prescription medication on the internet.

Be aware that some websites sell medicine illegally, which could be dangerous or of poor quality. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) website has a database of UK government approved sellers.

If you are on a very low income, you can apply for an HC2 certificate that means you don’t need to pay NHS charges. This includes charges for medication, dental care and eye care. It also gives help with travel costs, wigs and fabric supports (for example, surgical bras).

The HC2 lasts 1 year for most people, or 5 years for people over 65.

Anyone with savings or investments of less than £16,000 can apply, but whether you qualify depends on your income, age, living arrangements and expenses. Sometimes you can get an HC3 certificate instead (this gives partial help with costs).

If you qualify for an HC2 or HC3, your children also get help. You will need to bring a Child Tax Credit letter to prove that you are responsible for them. Partners can also be included on your HC2 or HC3, as long as they live in the same house as you.

• You can check if you might be able to get help using this quick online guide on the NHS Business Service website.

The level of care you get from the NHS depends on whether you are ‘ordinarily resident’. You are ‘ordinarily resident’ if you are living in Britain in a settled and lawful way. This includes most British people and also people living in Britain on a visa or with Indefinite Leave to Remain/Settled Status.

However, this also means if you usually live abroad, you might not be classed as ‘ordinarily resident’ even if you have:

• a British passport
• British citizenship
• an NHS number
• registered with a GP (local doctor)
• a UK property
• have paid (or are paying) National Insurance or taxes

People classed as Ordinarily Resident

Primary healthcare is the name for the care you usually get first. This means GPs (local doctors), walk-in clinics and emergency care. Everyone can get free primary healthcare through the NHS, even if they are not British.

Secondary healthcare is the care you get as a hospital patient. Usually, people living in Britain (‘ordinarily resident’, see question above) are not charged for this treatment on the NHS. However, if you do not live in Britain you will usually have to pay – even if you are a British citizen.

There is also tertiary care, which is the name for highly specialised services, for example organ transplants. Not everyone qualifies for this.

There are lots of unusual words and phrases used as part of social care. If you don’t understand them, the Think Local Act Personal website can help.

St John Ambulance is a first aid charity that works alongside the NHS. Its volunteers and employees often provide first aid at events, which is where you are most likely to see them. The charity also provides training courses and some ambulance or emergency services.

One organisation you often read about in the news is Nice – the National Institute for health and Care Excellence. This organisation uses scientific evidence to improve health and care in public services, including decisions about NHS spending on medicine.

Everyone has the right to make their own decisions about their healthcare. It does not matter which age you are (even if you are under 18). You can even refuse treatment. The only exceptions are when a healthcare professional does not think you are able to make an ‘informed decision’ (able to understand the choices). This might be because you are very young, or because you have severe mental health problems.

A ‘Lasting Power of Attorney for Health And Care’ is a document that means someone else can make decisions about your future medical treatment and place to live.

It is designed for times when you cannot make your own decisions (for example, if you develop severe dementia or have a very bad accident).

You must set up a Lasting Power of Attorney while you are well. It will only be used if you no longer have ‘mental capacity’. You can choose how this is measured.

The people you choose to make decisions for you are called ‘attorneys’. You should choose people you trust, for example lawyers or family members.

After you and your attorneys have signed your document, you must register it with the Office of the Public Guardian. The Power of Attorney will not be valid if you do not. For most people, there is a charge of £82.

• To set up a Lasting Power of Attorney, go to the service on the main government website.
• In Scotland, you need to make a ‘Welfare Power of Attorney’. Read more on the Scottish government website.

Most healthy adults can donate blood. In most places, a special van comes several times a year to a local community building. There are also 23 permanent donor centres across the country.

It is best to have an appointment, although sometimes you don’t need one. People from all nationalities are welcomed because some blood types are only found in people from some types of ethnic background. This can cause problems if there are not enough donors.

Donating blood is voluntary and you do not get paid. However, you might save someone’s life.

If you’d like to become a blood donor, see the Blood website.

MORE INFORMATION: You can also sign up to be a Bone Marrow donor. Some diseases (for example, leukaemia) can only be treated with stem cells taken from the blood or bone marrow of a healthy person. The donor must have the same tissue type as the patient, so a wide range of donors is needed.

The British Bone Marrow Registry is in particular need of donors (aged 17-40) from black, Asian, minority ethnic or mixed-race backgrounds. Also Caucasian men aged 17-40. Read more on the BBMR website.

Many ill people are dying because they need a new organ (for example heart, liver or kidney), but there are not enough donated organs.

Adults in England and Wales are automatically included on the organ donor register, unless they contact the register and ask to be removed.

Some groups are automatically excluded from the organ donor register, including children, people without the mental awareness to understand their decision, and people visiting the UK for 1 year or less. Be aware this means adults on visas of over 12 months are included as automatic organ donors.

When someone dies, the organs will not be taken immediately. NHS staff will still discuss the decision with the family first. No payment will be given.

If you do not want to donate your organs, you must add your name to a list on the Organ Donation website.

• In Scotland, the system is the opposite – you must add your name to the Organ Donation Scotland website to say if you want to donate.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) website provides information about the quality of NHS and private hospitals.

Be aware that some hospitals are excellent in some types of medicine, but might be less good in others. Your GP may also be able to give advice.

Different types of medical professionals have different names.

• A GP (general practitioner) is the common word for a doctor. They are trained in a wide range of general medical care. This training lasts up to 5 years after their medical degree. You usually find them in a local GP practice, but some work in hospitals. They will be called ‘Dr [name]’.
• A consultant does the same medical training as a doctor, and then chooses a specialist area. They train in this area for up to 9 years after their medical degree. They do not have ‘Dr’ in front of their name.
• A registrar is specialist doctor. Some will be working towards becoming a consultant, others stay at registrar level through their career.

Sometimes you might see a locum – this is a freelance doctor. They are fully qualified, but do not have a permanent job in any particular hospital or GP practice.

Hospitals car parks can become full very quickly. It is worth arriving at least half an hour before your appointment to make sure you find a space.

You will have to pay for your car parking and this can be quite expensive. Make sure you have enough cash (some machines also take payment cards).

If you need to visit the hospital every day, ask if there is a weekly car park pass. This is usually much cheaper than buying daily tickets. Sometimes, people with long-term medical treatment can get free parking. Ask at the hospital reception desk for more information.

There is help for people who do not have enough money to pay for transport to hospital, or who are too weak to use public transport.

Read our blog about hospital transport for more information.

It is good to bring things that will help you feel more comfortable. You will probably be in a room with other people that could be noisy and bright. It could be very difficult to relax.

Here are some suggestions for what to bring with you:

• any medicines or skin cream that you usually use
• pyjamas
• clothes
• socks and slippers
• pillow (if you don’t like the type at the hospital)
• ear plugs
• eye mask
• snacks
• tissues
• books/puzzles etc

Sometimes, the environment in an NHS hospital in not as restful as it should be. This is especially true if you are on a General Ward. They can be very noisy.

In some NHS hospitals, you can pay to stay in a single room – ask a nurse if this is possible.

Even if you have your own room, valuable items (like jewellery, phones or money) might be stolen. If you cannot look after them, give them to a member of hospital staff (and get a receipt) or get a friend/relative to look after them.

Often you can rent a television while you are at the hospital – ask the staff for details.

Patients are given food and drink at meal times (if they are allowed to eat). If you don’t like the food, or want more food, you must arrange to have it brought to you. It is a good idea to have your own bottle of water.

Relatives/friends must find their own food and drink. Most hospitals have a shop, café and restaurant.

Most hospitals have special ‘visiting hours’ (time for visits). Relatives can sometimes stay longer, or even overnight. Be aware that it is unusual to be given a bed and you might have to sleep in a chair.

If you have a very sick child, the rules are different. Sometimes there are beds for parents or special houses or apartments near the hospital where families can stay – for months, if necessary. Teaching can be provided for your ill child and any other children. Ask your nurses for more information.

Yes, most patients can use their mobile phones.

You can also ring the main hospital phone number and ask to speak to the patient. You will probably need the number of the ward they are staying on.

Most people need to arrange their own transport home from hospital or the Accident & Emergency department. There is usually a number for a local taxi company on signs within the department.

Speak to the hospital staff if you cannot pay for a taxi home and you have no-one who can collect you.

If you are worried you (or a relative/friend) are not getting the right care in hospital, you can speak to the hospital’s PALS (Patient Advice & Liaison Service). There is a PALS in each hospital.

PALS can offer confidential advice and can help you find support groups. They can also help if you have a worry or a complaint. Be aware this is mostly to make sure hospital staff have followed the correct procedures.

If you are still worried, sometimes the best thing to do is to ask a friend or relative to visit you often. Ask them to speak to the doctors and nurses for you. While most of the hospital staff might be too busy to have a long conversation, you can usually find a kind person who will take the time to talk to you and who knows the hospital well. They can usually explain the system and might be able to help.

Many hospitals have volunteers who can help patients in this way.

Dental care is available under the NHS, but you usually have to pay some money towards it. Cosmetic dental treatment (for example, teeth whitening) is not available on the NHS.

Adults usually have to pay for dental check-ups in England. In Scotland, NHS dental check-ups are free. In Wales, they are free for people under 25.

You will have to pay a contribution towards any treatment. NHS dentists can only charge a set amount towards each type of treatment. More information about dental charges is on the NHS website.

It can be difficult to find an NHS dentist with space for new patients. Many NHS dentists also offer private treatment, so make sure you make it clear what type of care you want. Find an NHS dentist near you.

Private care often has more available treatments and types of filling. They usually offer payment plans for dental care to help spread the cost. Search online for private dentists.

• The Care Quality Commission (CQC) website has information about the quality of dentists.

Not everyone has to pay for NHS dental care. You can get free check-ups and treatment if you are:

• under 18
• under 19 and in full-time education
• under 20 and are the child of someone receiving some types of security benefits
• pregnant or had a baby in the past 12 months
• being treated in hospital
• if you or your partner receive some types of state welfare payments
• have an HC2 certificate

For full details, see the NHS website.

High street opticians sell glasses and may also offer other services, such as testing eyesight.

Some opticians offer free NHS services for people registered with a local GP. This includes treatment for dry eyes, irritated/inflamed eyes or eyelids, ingrowing eyelashes, sudden loss of vision, something that seems like it is ‘floating’ in your vision, or if there is something stuck in the eye. They will refer you to a hospital if the problem needs specialist treatment.

Other types of eye specialist are:

• Optometrist: person who is trained to do sight tests, prescribe glasses and diagnose eye problems
• Ophthalmic practitioner: a doctor who specialises in eyes
• Ophthalmologist: an eye surgeon
• Orthoptist: a specialist in squints and eye movement problems

For more details, see the NHS website.

Most adults in England and Wales have to pay for their sight test (in Scotland they are free). The usual cost is about £15, although some opticians have occasional offers of free sight tests or reduced price sight tests. It is recommended that everyone has a sight test at least every 2 years.

You can get free sight tests if you are:

• under aged 16
• in full-time education, aged 16-18
• over age 60
• partially sighted or blind
• suffering from diabetes or glaucoma
• at risk of glaucoma
• a prisoner on leave
• getting some types of state welfare payments
• have an HC2 certificate

If you qualify for free sights tests and cannot get to a high street optician because of illness or disability, you might be able to get a home visit instead.

See the full details here about getting help with costs on the NHS website.

Most adults have to pay for their glasses, which can be very expensive. However, be aware you don’t have to buy glasses in the same place you had your eyes tested, and some places sell much cheaper frames than others.

The NHS will give money towards the cost of the glasses if you are:

• under 16
• aged 16-18 in full-time education
• a prisoner on leave
• need very strong glasses (prescriptions of +/-10, or prism-controlled bifocal lenses)
• get some types of state welfare payments
• have an HC2 certificate

See the full details here about getting help with costs on the NHS website.

The NHS offers free hearing tests, but there can be a long wait. You will need to see your GP first.

You should always go to a GP if:

• a child has the problem
• you have fluid coming from the ear
• you have earache
• you suddenly lose your hearing in one ear

If you think your hearing is gradually getting worse, you can try a free online hearing test.

Some large pharmacies and high street opticians offer hearing tests and also sell hearing aids. You usually have to pay, but the tests are not expensive.

• Read more about hearing tests on the NHS website.

Some types of hearing aids are provided free on the NHS as a long-term loan. Repairs and servicing is also free.

You can also choose to pay for your hearing aids privately. This gives you a bigger choice of hearing aids and might give you faster service.

• Read more about NHS hearing aids on the NHS website.

Condoms for men and women are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. The NHS also offers many types of free contraception so you can choose the best type for you. You can get them from your local GP or Sexual Health Clinic.

• The Sexwise website can help you choose the best type of contraception.

Emergency contraception is available from your GP. It is also available from pharmacies, Sexual Health Clinics and Urgent Treatment Centres.

Emergency contraception is sometimes called the ‘morning-after pill’. There are two types – one must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of having sex, the other within 120 hours (5 days). Ask the pharmacist for advice.

An alternative is to have a copper coil (IUD) fitted in your uterus (you will need to see a nurse for this).

• Read more about types of emergency contraception on the NHS website.

There is a lot of help for people who think they might have a sexually transmitted disease (sometimes called an STI or venereal disease).

• You can visit your nearest STI clinic or GUM (genito-urinary medicine) clinic. Sometimes you need an appointment, other times you can just drop in. You can ask for a male or female nurse. You don’t have to give your real name. You can go at any age, including under 16 (and parents will not be told). Find one using the NHS website.
• Young people can also call the national sexual health line, 0300 123 7123.
• You could also ask your GP or pharmacy for advice.

HIV testing is available free from many clinics in the UK. You can also pay to have a test. Sometimes this is faster or more convenient.

• Search for HIV testing places near you via the NHS website.

Abortions are possible before 24 weeks of pregnancy. There is no time limit on the abortion if the mother’s physical or mental health is in danger, or if the child would be born with a serious problem. Two doctors must agree to it.

A woman under the age of 16 can have an abortion without her parents knowing, as long as the doctors think she is mature enough to make the decision.

A nationwide survey in 2016 found that abortion is considered acceptable by 70% of people.

There are many clinics in the Britain where you can have an abortion. If you are eligible to be treated by the NHS, the abortion is free. If you need to pay, it could be about £1,500 (depending on how long you have been pregnant). See the British Pregnancy Advisory Service website.

Female circumcision (also known as ‘cutting’) is not legal in the UK. We call it Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). If you think you (or someone else) is in danger, there is a special telephone number: 0800 028 3550. You don’t have to give your name.

If it is an emergency, call the police on 999.

• Get help and advice from the main government website.

There is health travel advice on the TravelHealthPro website, which is commissioned by Public Health England. It has information and advice about health risks abroad.

In Scotland, the Scottish NHS offers its own travel site, Fit For Travel.

The main government website provides health advice about the risk of Covid-19 (coronavirus) for people travelling abroad. The site is updated regularly.

You are advised to get vaccinations for travel to some countries. This is against diseases such as typhoid, yellow fever or hepatitis A.

It is best to make an appointment at least 8 weeks before you are due to leave the UK. You may have to pay for the vaccines. See the NHS website for details.

If you can’t get vaccines at your GP clinic, you can also look online for local pharmacies that offer travel vaccinations, or private travel clinics.

If you have a long-term illness or disability, there are several ways to get help:

• Look for a charity that supports people with the type of illness or disability you have. You can search online or ask at your local GP surgery. If you regularly see a nurse, it is a good idea to ask them if they know of any help. Most charities can give information about symptoms or treatments; some have online or local support groups. Some can even give financial help.
• If you have physical problems around your home, ask for an assessment from your local council’s Health & Social Care team. They can help find care or provide equipment. You could also contact the disability equality charity Scope for advice.
• If you have a long-term illness or disability, you might be eligible for an NHS Personal Health Budget. This is money that you can use to make your life easier, in a way that suits you best. This could mean extra care at home or a new type of wheelchair. Read more on the NHS website.
• You might be able to claim state welfare payments. Be aware that if you have No Recourse to Public Funds in your visa, this will usually affect the type of help you can get.
• For general advice, see the independent organisation Citizens Advice.

Britain tries to keep elderly people independent for as long as possible. This is because most people prefer to stay in their own home and because specialist care homes are extremely expensive – at least £700 a week.

There are a lot of options available. Sometimes, the council will pay, but this is only available for people on very low incomes. In some areas, it can be almost impossible to find space in a care home.

The three main options for elderly relatives are:

• Arranging care at home
• Moving to a retirement village, residential home or ‘sheltered housing’ (housing aimed at people needing a low level of regular care)
• Moving to a care home (medium level of care) or nursing home (advanced care). You can find care homes on the Care Home website.

It is a good idea to speak to your local council’s Health and Social Care team to find out what is available from them first. The council will also have information about delivered meal services in your area. There are also many private care providers that can give care at home, search online.

MORE INFORMATION:

• The Which? website gives a lot of information about each care option, and ways to pay for them.
• The charity Age UK offers advice for older people.
• The Silver Line is a free, 24-hour telephone helpline giving support and friendship to elderly people. Call 0800 4 70 80 90.
• The Care Quality Commission (CQC) website has information about the quality of care agencies and care homes.

If you who care (unpaid) for a relative/friend with a long-term illness, disability or addiction problem, there are people who can support you.

Ask at your GP surgery about local charities or groups. Groups usually meet regularly. Registering with a group can be a good way to find friends and get support. Urban areas usually have better services than rural areas.

Support from local groups might include:

• Emergency caring support (for times when you are not able to help your friend/relative)
• Grants for people on low income
• Workshops and courses
• Free local gym membership
• Days out
• Home visits
• Holiday breaks

Carers Trust is a nationwide charity for carers of all ages. It offers a wide range of support, including legal advice and practical advice. You can also search for groups near you, or find links to other charities that might be able to help. It offers online resources such as free training courses about caring and online support forums. It also organises the CarerSmart discount card.

A hospice is place for seriously ill patients or those who are dying. It is different to a hospital because it is not about curing an illness or medical problem. Instead, it is about supporting the needs of people who are very ill (these needs could be medical, spiritual, practical or emotional).

This type of care is called hospice care and is sometimes given in a patient’s home. At other times, patients use hospices for a calming break or for end-of-life care.

Most hospices are paid for by a mix of donations and NHS funding. There are also many volunteers who help. Read more on the Hospice UK website.

• The Care Quality Commission (CQC) website has information about the quality of hospices.

Deaths must be registered in your local register office within 5 days (8 days in Scotland). You will need a medical certificate from a doctor.

There are slightly different rules for:

• stillborn children
• when a coroner is investigating the death
• when the death was abroad
• when someone is missing, presumed dead.

There are full details on the main government website.

You will probably need to tell a lot of government organisations about the death (for example the local council and Department for Work & Pensions). In some areas, there is a service called Tell Us Once that lets you do this quickly and easily.

There will usually be many other organisations that need to be told, especially if the person paid for membership. This could include gyms, clubs, educational places, magazine or newspaper companies, and social media.

You can choose when to have a funeral after a death. First the death must be registered. After that, it is up to you. Some communities prefer to have the funeral within a set timescale. However, most people just choose the most convenient date. This might be 2 or even 3 weeks later.

The average funeral with a funeral director is about £3,700 (although this price varies a lot). Burial is the most expensive option. ‘Direct cremation’ is usually the cheapest option, but it does not include a funeral service. Many people organise a separate memorial or event.

Paying for a funeral can be difficult. Check if the person who died had paid into a funeral plan. Alternatively, you might be able to use their savings or assets.

If you claim state welfare payments, you may be able to also claim Funeral Expenses Payments. The maximum amount for funeral expenses is £700. Read more about Funeral Expenses Payments on the main government website.

For people without relatives, or whose relatives cannot afford funeral costs, the council will arrange a ‘public health funeral’. This will be cremation and might mean the person’s ashes are placed in a shared burial site.

The main government website can tell you more about arranging a funeral.

Most people choose to be buried in a church graveyard or cemetery. There are many different types of cemetery (including cemeteries for specific faiths or communities, and ‘natural burial grounds’ in woodland or meadows). There are other options too:

• In some cemeteries you can choose a mausoleum or vault, instead of being buried underground. Search the internet for more details.
• Burial at sea is possible. There are 3 places around the coast where this is allowed. Read more about burial at sea on the main government website.
• There is no law against burial on private land (even, in theory, a garden!) as long as the landowner has agreed. After the death has been registered, contact the Environment Agency for authorisation. They will check that the body will not be a health risk.

The charity Tommmy’s offers advice and support for anyone who suffers a miscarriage, stillbirth or death of their very young baby. They have trained midwives who can be contacted by phone during the week.

The website also has information about registering the baby, planning the funeral and any financial help you might be able to get.

The Child Death Helpline is a national phone helpline (0800 282 986 and 0808 800 6019) to help anyone affected by the death of a child in their family.

The calls are answered by trained volunteers, who are also parents whose children have died. Calls are confidential and free.

The helpline is open every evening from 19.00-22.00 and at some other times. See more on the Child Death Helpline website.

A charity called Winston’s Wish provides professional support for children who have relatives who have died.