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GP Registration Without Address
Your right to register with a GP even if you have no fixed address, and how to do it.
Relevant for:
Currently Homeless
Important Warnings
- Some GP practices may be reluctant to register homeless people. Do not give up. Try another practice or get support from a homeless service.
- You may need to be persistent. Ask to speak to a manager if the receptionist refuses.
- Being registered with a GP is vital for accessing other health services, prescriptions, and referrals.
- You have the right to register with a GP even if you do not have a permanent address or ID.
- GP practices cannot refuse to register you because you are homeless. This is against NHS rules.
- You can use the address of a day centre, hostel, friend, or relative, or register as "no fixed abode".
- Once registered, you can access GP appointments, prescriptions, vaccinations, and referrals to specialists.
- You have the right to free NHS healthcare, including GP services, regardless of your housing status.
- GP practices cannot ask for proof of address, ID, or immigration status to register you (though they may ask, you can decline).
- If a GP refuses to register you, you can complain to NHS England.
Next Steps
Important Action
Find a GP practice near you
Use the NHS website to search for GP practices in your area.
Register in person or online
Visit the practice and ask to register. Fill in a GMS1 form. You can give a care-of address or say you have no fixed abode.
Explain your situation
Tell the receptionist or practice manager that you are homeless. They should have processes to help you register.
Get help from a day centre or outreach worker
Many day centres and homeless services can help you register with a GP and provide an address to use.
Complain if refused
If a GP refuses to register you, contact NHS England or Healthwatch to make a complaint.
External Resources
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