Looking after your health
‘Looking after your health in the UK’ is a guide for refugees and asylum seekers and others who are new to the UK.
Arriving in a new country presents many challenges and people need to adjust rapidly to unfamiliar systems.
The information on this page explains how and when to access health care from the UK’s National Health Service (the ‘NHS’) and guidance on self-care and healthy living.
These videos are part of the North East Migration Partnership’s Welcome & Induction Programme for newly arriving Refugees and Asylum Seekers and are made in partnership with the Regional Refugee Forum North East.
The guide is here to help you understand how to look after your health in the UK. It starts with the basics—how to register with a doctor or GP (General Practitioner), book an appointment, and ask for an interpreter if you need one. You’ll also learn how your GP can connect you to other specialist health services.
The guide explains when and how to use different types of care, from looking after yourself at home to calling the NHS 111 telephone line for advice. You’ll find out how pharmacists can help, when to visit your GP, and when it’s time to go to Accident & Emergency (A&E) or call 999 in a serious emergency.
If you’re entitled to free healthcare, the guide shows you how HC1 and HC2 certificates work and what they mean for you. There’s also guidance on accessing medication and understanding prescriptions, so you feel confident about the treatment you receive.
Children’s health is covered too, along with eye care and dental care, and important health screening programmes that help prevent illness. The guide includes information on contraception and sexual health services, and practical tips for keeping a “happy head”—especially important for anyone coping with trauma or anxiety.
Finally, the guide shares advice on healthy living, including diet and exercise, so you can take steps toward feeling your best every day.