Proof of Address Policy

 

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We often receive requests from patients asking for proof of address letters to support applications for Universal Credit, schools, bank accounts or other services. However, we regret to inform you that GP practices are not required or obligated to provide these letters, and here’s why

 

1. Not a core NHS service

GP surgeries are responsible for providing medical care, not administrative documentation for non-medical purposes.  Issuing proof of address letters falls outside of our NHS contract and takes valuable time away from essential patient care.

 

2. Not a legal authority

GP practices are not officially recognised by banks, government departments, or other organisations as a source for verifying a person’s residential address.

 

3. Alternative ways to verify your address exist

There are already established processes in place for verifying your identity and address through government departments, banks, and support organisations. These institutions have their own guidelines for proof of address that do not require GP involvement.

 

4. GP practices do not verify addresses

Patients are not required to provide proof of address when registering with a GP.  This means we do not formally verify or authenticate addresses, making any letter we provide less reliable for official purposes.

 

Alternative solutions for proof of address

If you are struggling to provide proof of address, there are alternative options available, we recommend contacting the relevant organisation directly to ask what alternative documents they accept as many services now have flexible verification methods, especially for those in vulnerable situations.  We advise using one of the following accepted forms of documentation:

  • A recent utility bill (gas, electricity, water)
  • Council tax bills
  • Bank Statement
  • Tenancy agreement
  • Letters from a government department (DWP, HMRC)

We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to seek support from the appropriate agencies to ensure your needs are met efficiently.