What must a GP practice website include in 2026/27?
By Sreeni, Editor · Last reviewed 9 October 2026 · 8 minute read
What the GP contract requires
Since 2020, practices have needed an online presence, such as a website, and an NHS.uk profile, both reviewed at least once every 12 months. From 1 October 2025, patients must be able to use online consultation for routine appointment requests, medication queries and admin requests throughout core hours (8am to 6.30pm).
The 2026/27 contract goes further. Your website must show opening times for every way patients can reach you: walk-in, phone and online consultation. New patients must register online, through the national registration service. And online consultation can’t cap the number of requests during core hours.
NHS England’s benchmark: 50 criteria
NHS England’s GP website benchmarking and improvement tool has 50 criteria: 36 patient priorities and 14 practice priorities, plus a check of legal requirements. Each is rated well, adequately or inadequately. NHS England’s guide for practices recommends writing for a reading age of 9 to 11 and re-checking your website every 12 to 18 months.
Checklist
| Requirement | Since | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Website and NHS.uk profile, reviewed at least every 12 months | 2020 | GMS regulations 2020 |
| Online consultation open throughout core hours | Oct 2025 | BMA: contract changes 2025/26 |
| Opening times for walk-in, phone and online access | 2026/27 | NHS England: contract changes 2026/27 |
| Online registration for all new patients | 2026/27 | NHS England: contract changes 2026/27 |
| No cap on online consultation requests in core hours | 2026/27 | NHS England: contract changes 2026/27 |
| Accessibility statement | 2018 regulations | GOV.UK |
Questions
Is the NHS benchmark tool mandatory?
No, it's guidance. But ICBs increasingly use it to review practice websites.
Who is responsible if our website isn't accessible?
Usually both. NHS England's guide says the supplier is normally responsible for the template and key accessibility features, and the practice for its written content and images.
Correct as of October 2026. This guide reflects the GP contract and NHS England guidance at that date. Contracts and guidance change, so check the latest from NHS England and the BMA (linked above) before acting on it.
This guide is general information, not legal or contractual advice.