Refer using our Virtual Assistant
Our new Virtual Assistant is a secure and user-friendly digital tool to send referrals to our service. It offers a simple guided conversation to provide essential details and submit referrals quickly and safely directly to our team.
This service helps us deliver more efficient care while meeting the highest NHS digital safety standards.
How to Self-Refer using our Virtual Assistant
To get started simply click the Make a Referral button in the bottom right corner of this webpage.
The Virtual Assistant will guide you step-by-step in just a few minutes.
It will first ask for some personal details, if you have your NHS number please provide it, if not you can still complete a referral.
You will be asked a few questions relating to the reasons you need to be seen and some medical history.
When you click Submit the referral is sent directly to our service.
Please note that if you leave the chat halfway through, information will be lost and you will need to start afresh.
Frequently asked questions
What details do I need to authenticate?
The ideal details are:
- Your NHS Number
- Your date of birth
If you don’t have your NHS Number, you will need:
- Your surname
- Your postcode
- Your date of birth
I don't have my NHS Number. What should I do?
Your NHS Number can usually be found on NHS appointment letters. You can also find it using the NHS tool via this link:
If you don’t have it, you can still authenticate using:
- Your surname
- Your postcode
- Your date of birth
For more help finding your NHS Number, visit the NHS website. [link]
What if the VA cannot identify me?
In the first instance please try re-entering the information to make sure it is correct. This can happen if you attempt to authenticate without your NHS Number.
While most people can authenticate using their surname, postcode, and date of birth, some cases — such as twins with similar details — may require your unique NHS Number.
To resolve this:
- Locate your NHS Number and use it to authenticate.
- Alternatively, contact the service using the telephone number on their website
Why doesn't the Virtual Assistant understand me?
The Virtual Assistant cannot answer any questions. It can only submit referrals.