NHS podiatry still exists. I want to say that clearly at the start, because it can feel that way sometimes — like it’s quietly disappeared. It hasn’t. But access has narrowed considerably over the past decade or so, and if you’re searching for an NHS chiropodist near you and not finding one, there’s a reason for that.
The honest picture is this: NHS podiatry is now largely reserved for patients with serious medical need. Routine foot care — the kind most people want — has been removed from NHS provision in the majority of areas. This post explains who still qualifies, what you can realistically expect, and what the alternatives are if you don’t.
What NHS podiatry actually is
NHS podiatry is provided by registered podiatrists employed by NHS trusts, community health services, or GP practice networks. It’s free at point of use, and in most areas you’ll need a GP referral to access it — you can’t usually self-refer, though some trusts do allow this. Worth checking your local NHS trust website for the specifics in your area.
The service covers the same range of treatments private podiatrists offer — nail care, wound management, diabetic foot assessments, orthotics, and more. The difference is access, not quality. NHS podiatrists are fully qualified, HCPC-registered professionals.
Who qualifies for NHS podiatry
The threshold, in most areas, is clinical risk. NHS podiatry is primarily available to patients whose foot health is directly linked to a serious underlying condition, and where problems with their feet could have significant medical consequences.
In practice, that means:
Patients with diabetes — This is the single biggest group. Diabetes affects circulation and sensation in the feet, which means that small problems can escalate quickly and seriously. NHS podiatry services prioritise diabetic patients, often as part of a wider diabetes care pathway. If you have diabetes and haven’t had a recent foot check, ask your GP or diabetes team specifically — you’re likely to qualify.
Peripheral vascular disease and circulatory conditions — Poor circulation in the lower limbs creates similar risks to diabetes. Patients with vascular disease are generally considered high priority.
Rheumatoid arthritis and neurological conditions — Where the condition directly affects the feet or lower limbs, NHS podiatry input is often part of ongoing management.
Post-surgical foot care — Following foot surgery, whether on the NHS or privately, podiatry input for wound care and rehabilitation may be provided.
High-risk elderly patients — Older patients with mobility issues, fragile skin, or multiple health conditions affecting their feet may qualify, though this varies considerably by area.
What’s no longer covered in most areas
Routine foot care for otherwise healthy adults has largely been removed from NHS podiatry provision. In most NHS trusts, you will not be referred for:
- Nail trimming or thickened nail care where there is no underlying medical condition
- Callus or hard skin reduction
- Corn removal
- General foot maintenance
This isn’t universally true — provision varies by area — but it is the reality in the majority of England. If your GP has told you that NHS podiatry isn’t available for your particular concern, they’re almost certainly right.
I know that’s frustrating to read, particularly for older patients who remember a time when the NHS chiropodist would visit regularly. That service still exists in pockets, but it’s no longer the norm.
How to access NHS podiatry if you think you qualify
The usual route is through your GP. If you have diabetes, a vascular condition, or another health issue that puts your feet in the higher-risk category, ask your GP specifically for a podiatry referral. Be clear about the underlying condition — “I have Type 2 diabetes and I’m concerned about my feet” will get a different response than “my nails are hard to cut.”
If you’re part of a diabetes care team, you can often ask for a foot referral through them directly — and may find the process quicker.
For self-referral, check your local NHS trust or integrated care board website. Some areas do allow it, particularly for diabetic foot care.
What to do if you don’t qualify
The most straightforward option is private podiatry. Private podiatrists are the same qualified, HCPC-registered professionals as their NHS counterparts — the difference is simply how the appointment is funded. A standard private appointment typically costs £35–£60, with no GP referral needed. For a full breakdown of costs, see: How Much Does a Podiatrist Cost? →
For routine nail care, callus, and general foot maintenance — particularly if you’d value a home visit — a qualified foot health practitioner is worth considering. FHP appointments are often lower cost and many operate mobile services. See What Can a Foot Health Practitioner Do? → for more on what that covers.
Looking for a private podiatrist or chiropodist near you? Our directory lists practitioners across England — no referral needed. Search here →
The information in this post is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. NHS provision varies by area — contact your GP or local NHS trust for information specific to your area.
