How to register a new baby with a GP in Havering

When should I register my baby?

As soon as possible after birth — ideally within the first week. You don't need to wait for the birth to be registered with the local council (you have 42 days to do that), and you don't need a birth certificate to register with a GP.

The sooner your baby is registered, the sooner we can book their 6–8 week check and send vaccination reminders. Waiting too long can push these important appointments past the recommended windows.

Which GP surgery should my baby be registered with?

Your baby doesn't have to be registered with the same GP as you — but it's almost always simpler if they are. Having the whole family at one practice means one set of records, one point of contact, and easier coordination between your care and theirs.

If you are registered at Abbamoor, you can register your baby with us. We accept babies and children from within our catchment area. If you're not already registered here, you can register yourself at the same time.

GP practices in England cannot refuse to register a patient solely on the basis that they don't have a fixed address or proof of address. If you're having difficulty registering your baby, you have the right to contact NHS England.

How to register at Abbamoor

You can register your baby online in around five minutes. You'll need:

• Your baby's first name and surname (or a placeholder if not yet decided)
• Your baby's date of birth
• Your home address (must be within our catchment area)
• Your own contact details
• Your NHS number if you have it — but this isn't required

You don't need to upload any documents or attend in person to register. Once your registration is processed, we'll be in touch to book the 6–8 week check.

What happens after registration?

Once your baby is registered, we'll add them to our system and link them to the NHS Summary Care Record. You'll also:

• Receive reminders when vaccinations are due
• Be able to book their 6–8 week check with us
• Be referred to the NELFT health visiting team if not already in place
• Have access to our Havering Child Health Hub for integrated 0–18 support via GP referral (JOY app)

Does my baby need to be registered at the same practice as me?

Yes. At least one parent / guardian must be registered at the same practice. It means:

• Your GP already knows your health history, which can be relevant to your child's care
• Medication reviews, referrals, and shared care arrangements are simpler
• You only need to remember one surgery's phone number and patient portal

What if my baby was born outside Havering or is coming from abroad?

The process is the same. Any baby living within our catchment area can register with us regardless of where they were born, their nationality, or their immigration status. NHS primary care is free to everyone in England.

If your baby received healthcare abroad or at another NHS trust, it can be helpful to bring any discharge letters or vaccination records you have — but this isn't required to register.

What about registering the birth with the council?

This is a separate process handled by the London Borough of Havering register office, not the GP. You must register a birth within 42 days in England and Wales. Both parents can do this together, or (in some circumstances) one parent alone. You'll receive a birth certificate after registration.

You do not need to register the birth before registering with a GP — and we'd encourage you to do the GP registration first, as it affects your baby's healthcare.

What if I'm struggling to get registered somewhere?

If you've been refused registration by a GP practice and you believe this is unfair, contact NHS Havering (part of NHS North East London ICB). They can allocate you to a local practice. You can also call NHS England on 0300 311 2233.