First Community’s Falls Prevention service to introduce self-referral on 19 January 2026
People registered with an east Surrey GP practice will be able to self-refer into First Community's Falls Prevention service from 19 January, if they are eligible.
Previously, people would have to see their GP to get a referral to this service. However, this new option will make it easier and more convenient for patients, by expanding the ways in which they can access the service and avoiding the need to see their GP beforehand.
Patients are encouraged to access the Steady On Your Feet website which provides self-help advice and guidance to support people at risk of falling, including:
- How to maintain mobility and reduce the risk of falls
- Ways to maintain hazards in the home
- Diet tips and exercises
- Support groups and other organisations
- Personal action plans.
If additional support is required, patients will be able to self-refer into the service where a member of the team will visit patients in their home to provide specialist care.
Some people with more urgent issues may still need to see their GP or other healthcare professional to get a referral. However, patients will be able to check if they're eligible to self-refer by answering a few questions about their medical history and any previous falls they have had. The online self-referral form will be available on the First Community website from 19 January.
If patients require any support in completing the form or if a paper copy is required, they can contact the Falls Prevention team and a paper form can be posted to them. Once the self-referral form has been completed, if the patient is eligible, they will be contacted by a member of the team to confirm their appointment.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence in older adults. The introduction of self-referral to the service will enable faster support, reduce pressure on primary care and will help to identify people at risk much earlier.
First Community continues to support the NHS 10 Year Plan by improving access, promoting prevention and empowering people to take control of their health.