Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

  • using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
  • using the GP online system: SystmConnect
  • bring the paper form to the surgery, Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 6.30pm

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.

Collecting your prescription

You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it.

You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.

You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:

  • on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
  • at your GP practice
  • at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

Questions about your prescription

If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.

The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

Medication reviews

Please use Systmconnect to complete your request.

Prescription charges

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

About pharmacists

As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:

  • coughs
  • colds
  • sore throats
  • tummy trouble
  • aches and pains

They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.

Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.

Using Your Medicines Wisely – Help us reduce medicine waste

Every year, the NHS spends an estimated £300 million on medicines that are ordered but never used.

That’s money that could instead help fund nurses, operations, or new treatments for patients who need them most.

Many medicines go to waste because:

They’re ordered automatically but not needed anymore.

Treatment changes aren’t communicated to the practice or pharmacy.

Patients stop taking medicines due to side effects or recovery, but still receive repeats.

Once medicines leave the pharmacy, they cannot be reused or recycled, even if unopened.

By ordering only what you need and keeping your medication list up to date, you can:

Help the NHS save money and reduce waste.

Prevent confusion about your current medicines.

Ensure that others get the care and medicines they need.

Ordering your prescriptions

Order repeat prescriptions 3-5 days before you run out.

Check what you already have before re-ordering.

Please don’t order too early or stockpile medicines – it can lead to waste and confusion.

It can also lead to unsafe use of medicines without seeking advice from your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional.

If your treatment changes

If you’ve been told to stop a medicine, please let your GP, pharmacist, or practice team know so we can update your records.

Return any unused or leftover medicines to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

Never throw medicines in the bin or flush them down the toilet.

How can you help?

Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. If unsure always ask p advice from pharmacist, clinician or other health professional

If you have side effects or concerns, speak with your pharmacist or clinical admin team .

Encourage family and friends to only order what they need.

Every little action helps

By ordering wisely, returning unwanted medicines, and keeping us informed about any changes, you’re helping reduce waste and supporting the NHS to provide better care for everyone.

Thank you for helping us reduce medicine waste and make the most of NHS resources.
Your actions really do make a difference — together, we can help protect our NHS for the future. We’re grateful for your support!