Non-UK Nationals

We welcome Non-UK Nationals to the practice.   

In fact, at present, about, one third of all our patients are originally from Africa, and another third from Eastern Europe.

• We try to understand the cultural differences and the effects of dislocation which can affect your health and also to explain to you how the NHS in the UK may differ from the health care system you have been used to.
• We have access to Language Line (a telephone interpreting service) for immediate communication difficulties, but we prefer to book face to face interpreters for more detailed consultations.

Please let the reception staff know if English is not your first language and you think that having an interpreter present would make it easier for us to understand you.

Somali speakers please be aware that we have a Somali interpreter present on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10am to 12.30pm, so please try to come at these times if you need an interpeter and your problem can wait until then.

• We would recommend you have an interpreter unless you are happy that your English is really good enough to discuss psychological and medical issues satisfactorily.
• We would also suggest that you do not use family members as interpreters except in emergencies as professional interpeters are also confidential but can be dispassionate and accurate, and can translate medical terms and complex issues in a professional way which helps both us and you.