General Practitioner (GP)

A GP deals with a wide range of health issues including general health advice, contraception, maternity services and vaccinations. If the GP can’t help, they may refer you to a hospital for tests or treatment, or to specialist services if you need them.
It’s important that you register with your nearest GP practice by completing a registration form. See the map to find out where your local GP’s are.

Maternity services

You should contact your GP as soon as you know you are pregnant so that the appropriate care is provided to you and you are given essential information and are able to have any required tests or scans at the required time. Your GP will refer you to midwifery services who will provide information and care that you need during your pregnancy and for the birth of your baby.
The midwifery service automatically informs the health visiting service of the birth of all babies. A visit is usually arranged 10-14 days after the birth at which point the health visiting service takes over from midwifery services to deliver the support needed to you and your baby. Please see the Health Visiting section for further details of the service’s provided in Southwark.
If your baby is diagnosed with medical needs requiring additional support, referrals will be made at that time to all appropriate services.

Vaccinations and immunisations

It is important to make sure your child has their routine vaccinations at the right age, to protect them as early as possible and minimise the risk of infection. Childhood vaccinations are provided free by the NHS to all children. For more information see the NHS vaccination timetable.

Last updated: 05 October 2021