You and Your General Practice
What You Can Expect (Your Rights)
- Contacting Us:
- Open Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm
- Call us, visit in person, use the NHS App, or our website
- When We Are Closed:
- Urgent (non-emergency)? Call 111 or visit NHS 111 online
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E
- Appointments:
- Tell us what you need so we can help quickly
- We will reply within one working day with:
- same-day/future appointment
- Phone call or message
- Advice from Pharmacy or NHS Service
- Who You Might See:
- GP, Nurse, Pharmacist, or other trained staff
- Carers can speak for you with your consent
- You can ask for a preferred clinician (may wait longer)
- Extra Support:
- From age 16, you can book alone
- Tell us if you need a translator, wheelchair access, or extra help
- Your Rights:
- Register with any local practice – no ID or proof of address needed
- Choose your hospital for referrals if available
- Be treated with respect, kindness and fairness
How You Can Help
- Be Ready:
- Think about what you want to say before your appointment
- Be On Time:
- Arrive promptly or cancel if you can’t come
- Use Services Wisely:
- Use the NHS App for bookings, prescriptions, and results
- Turn on notifications so you don’t miss messages
- Order only what medicines you need
- Join In:
- Join the Patient Participation Group to share ideas
- Give Feedback:
- Speak to the Practice Manager
- Or contact North East and North Cumbria Integrated care Board
Together, we can make your care better!
This guide tells you what to expect from your general practice (GP) and how you can help them, so you get the best from the National Health Service (NHS). More details can be found through the link below: