Other health services
Dentists
It’s important to start visiting the dentist when a child starts to get their first teeth, and then continue with regular check-ups to avoid any damage to the teeth.
If you get any new dental pain then they’ll also be able to check your teeth and treat any problems they find. This includes x-rays, fillings, removals and surgery.
You’re entitled to NHS dental care, and in some circumstances, this can be free of charge.
Visit the NHS Inform website for information about dental services in Scotland, including how to find a dentist, registering and charging.
Health visitors
Health visitors are qualified nurses or midwifes who have completed specialist training in child and family health. They offer support and advice regarding the wellbeing of your child until their school years. They are based in local GP practices.
More information about the support they provide and how to contact them is available on the NHS Borders website.
Opticians
It’s recommended that most people get their eyes tested every two years. Your eyes rarely hurt when something is wrong with them, so having regular eye tests is important to help detect potentially harmful conditions.
Your ophthalmic practitioner or optometrist may recommend you have an NHS sight test more often than every two years if you:
- are a child wearing glasses
- have diabetes
- are aged 40 or over and have a family history of glaucoma
- are aged 60 or over
More information, including charges, and find an optician on the NHS Inform website.
We also have information for people with a visual impairment.
Hearing services
You can get a free hearing assessment at places like Boots and Specsavers on the high street. Your GP can also refer you to an NHS hearing aid provider if they think you might need a hearing aid.
The benefits of getting a hearing aid on the NHS include:
- hearing aids are provided free as a long-term loan
- free batteries and repairs (there may be a charge if you lose or break your hearing aid and it needs to be replaced)
- not having to pay for any follow-up appointments or aftercare
The hearing aids available on the NHS are basic, but others are available if you’re happy to pay for them yourself.
We also have information for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people, which includes how our sensory services team can help you.
Coronavirus (Covid-19)
Get the latest guidance about COVID-19 from the NHS inform website including how to get your Covid-19 vaccine.
Mental health
Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical wellbeing.
If you’re worried about your mental health and would like to discuss your options, book an appointment with a GP.
If you’re having a mental health crisis and need immediate help, call the 24/7 Urgent Mental Health helpline on 0808 196 870.
Barnardo’s Ukrainian support helpline
The Barnardo's Ukrainian Support helpline is available to anyone fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. It’s staffed by English, Ukrainian and Russian speakers, to offer support anyone arriving in the UK from Ukraine.