Sutton volunteers bring the NHS App to the community 

Health navigators like Chrys Newman and Pam Foulks are teaching local people how to use the free NHS App, simplifying appointments, prescription requests, and management of referrals and health records (if enabled by their health care setting).

Health navigators are volunteers who work with people outside of traditional healthcare settings, bringing wellbeing support direct to communities. They offer essential services like blood pressure checks and BMI screening, aiding in early detection of health issues.

Crucially, they also help to demystify digital health tools like the NHS App, empowering people with new skills and knowledge. Health navigators recognise that technology isn’t always intuitive for everyone. Their role is to support people, regardless of technical background, ensuring they can benefit from the latest health resources.

We’re very flexible. You can find us in community centres, food banks – many of the places where people go.”

“We’re very flexible. You can find us in community centres, food banks – many of the places where people go.” says Chrys (in the film above). She explains how the app puts a wide range of time-saving benefits at users’ fingertips. “It makes booking appointments so easy,” she says. “You just open the NHS App. It saves you having to sit on the phone and wait.”

Pam (pictured top) adds: “When ordering a repeat prescription, I find it really useful that I can tick the boxes on my phone and don’t have to rush over to the GP surgery. The app is so simple, and you’ve probably got it on your phone from Covid-19 times.” 

It makes booking appointments so easy.”

In addition to appointments and repeat prescriptions, the app offers access to medical records, and even symptom checking.

It is also useful for family members and unpaid carers. “If your NHS App is synced with that of a family member, you can check their records and book their appointments,” says Chrys.

Each borough also has a dedicated digital care co-ordinator who goes out and about in local communities, offering support and guidance on downloading and using the NHS app and all its features. Tanuja Kumari, the digital care co-ordinator for Sutton, is working with GP practices as well as local voluntary sector organisations to offer support to patients who need it.

Why should you download the app?

• What the app can do: Do more with the NHS App. Book appointments, order repeat prescriptions, view your health records, manage referrals and more all in one place.
• Secure and simple: Take control of your healthcare by using the NHS App – it’s secure, easy to use and brings the NHS to use at the push of a button.
• Self-care: You can use the NHS App wherever you are, day or night. For managing your healthcare on the go, download the NHS App.
• Joined up care: The NHS App brings together different NHS services in one place, making it easier for you to manage your health and any care you need.