How to keep your .nhs.uk address when you change website supplier
By Sreeni, Editor · Last reviewed 10 October 2026 · 4 minute read
Who controls your address
NHS England registers .nhs.uk names for NHS organisations, using each organisation’s ODS code. Every address has a named domain administrator and a technical contact. Often your website supplier is the technical contact, because they set up where the address points.
Before you switch
- Find out who is listed as the domain administrator and technical contact for your address.
- Ask your current supplier whether they also run your email on the same address. If they do, plan for it.
- Check your contract’s notice period and the date it ends.
- Keep your old website live until the new one is ready.
How the move works
Your new supplier builds the new website on a private preview address first. When you’re happy, the address’s settings are changed so it points to the new site. Done carefully, patients see no gap.
If you don’t have one yet
You can apply for a new .nhs.uk domain using NHS England’s form. You’ll need your practice’s ODS code and contact details for the domain administrator and technical contact. NHS England says it acknowledges requests within 2 working days.
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.