Accessing someone else’s information

As a parent, family member or carer, you may be able to access services for someone else. We call this having proxy access. We can set this up for you if you are both registered with us.

To request proxy access:

Who can request proxy access?

You can only be set up as a proxy access user if you have a registered account with online services.

  • Parents or Guardians: For children under the age of 16, parents or guardians can request proxy access.
  • Carers: For adults who may need assistance managing their healthcare, carers can request proxy access with the patient’s consent.
  • Legal Representatives: Individuals with legal authority, such as those holding a Power of Attorney for health and welfare, can also request proxy access.
  • Proxy application will not be accepted from third party organisations such as insurance company or solicitors.

How to request proxy access

  • 1. fill out a consent for proxy access to GP online services form
  • 2. provide identification: Both the patient and the proxy will need to provide identification documents.
  • 3. review and approval: The practice will review the request and grant access as appropriate.

Important considerations

  • confidentiality: We take patient confidentiality seriously. Proxy access is granted with careful consideration of the patient’s best interests.
  • consent: For patients aged 11 and over, explicit consent is required for any proxy access.
  • changes in Access: Proxy access can be modified or revoked at any time upon request by the patient or if deemed necessary by the practice.

Proxy access for children

  • under age 11: Parents or guardians can request proxy access without the child’s consent, although it is good practice to involve the child in discussions about their healthcare where appropriate.
  • ages 11 to 16: Proxy access is reviewed, and the child’s views are taken into account. Children age 11 and over must provide written consent for any information to be shared. At age 16, patients are generally considered capable of managing their own healthcare, and proxy access will be reviewed and will require the patient’s consent to continue.

Please ensure you have carefully read the NHS Proxy Access Guide (PDF) prior to applying.

Linked profiles in your NHS account

Once proxy access is set up, you can access the other person’s profile in your NHS account, using the NHS App or website.

The NHS website has information about using linked profiles to access services for someone else.

Related information

Accessing your GP health record