Free Workshop to Help Older Residents Navigate NHS Apps


Fulham Good Neighbours advising those who need support with technology


Gain confidence using the NHS App and PATCHS, the online consultation system. Picture: Fulham Good Neighbours

January 19, 2026

Fulham Good Neighbours is inviting local residents to a free digital health workshop later this month, aimed at helping older people gain confidence using the NHS App and PATCHS, the online consultation system used by many GP practices.

The drop-in session, run in partnership with South Fulham Primary Care Network (PCN), takes place on Monday 26 January, from 11am to 1pm at Rosaline Hall, SW6. It is designed especially for people aged 60 and over, as well as anyone who needs extra support with technology.

Attendees will receive one-to-one guidance from trained volunteers and healthcare professionals in a relaxed, friendly setting—with tea, cake and plenty of patience on offer. No booking is required.

Over the past few years, the NHS has increasingly encouraged patients to use digital tools to manage their healthcare. For many people, these apps make everyday tasks quicker and more convenient—but for others, especially those less familiar with smartphones or online forms, they can feel confusing or overwhelming.

The NHS App allows patients to:

  • Order repeat prescriptions
  • View GP health records
  • Check test results
  • Manage appointments
  • Receive messages from their GP practice
  • Access the NHS 111 online service

It has become a central part of how GP surgeries communicate with patients, particularly since the pandemic.

PATCHS is an online consultation platform used by many GP practices, including those in South Fulham PCN. It enables patients to:

  • Request medical advice
  • Ask for administrative help
  • Submit symptoms for review
  • Receive responses from their GP practice without needing to call

While PATCHS can reduce phone queues and speed up triage, it relies on patients being able to navigate the online system confidently—something this workshop aims to support.

Fulham Good Neighbours says the session will be informal and accessible, with volunteers on hand to help people use their own phones or tablets, or to practise on devices provided at the venue. The charity emphasises that no question is too small, and participants can learn entirely at their own pace.

Workshop details

Date: Monday 26 January
Time: 11:00am – 1:00pm
Venue: Rosaline Hall, 70 Rosaline Road, SW6 7QT
Cost: Free, no booking required

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