Wigan LMC Bulletin 3rd December 2025

by | Dec 4, 2025 | Hot Topics

Festive Eves – Alliance Cover for Wigan Practices

Following a number of enquiries (thank you Jenny and Vicky) about the provision and extent of the cover which the Alliance will offer to practices for the coming festive eves, further discussion has taken place between the LMC, ICB Place and the Alliance Team.

We can confirm that the Alliance will provide the usual Wednesday PM cover on the festive eves, should practices wish to avail themselves of it.

As noted in the LMC Bulletin dated 28th October (attached for ease), the complicating factor this year is the contractual obligation for practices to keep their online consultations portal operational during ‘core hours’.  The Alliance is unable to provide surveillance and response for AskMyGP etc., and practices will need to ensure that they make arrangements to do this on the festive eves.  The bulletin of 28th October enclosed, contains the guidance from the BMA on the obligations regarding online consultation tools and how practices can comply with these.  A remote surveillance of online consultation portals is permissible, e.g. laptops.

The NHSE is taking a strict approach to practice compliance with the contractual obligation of online consultation access, and it is likely that it will require ICBs to scrutinise practices over the festive period.  It is advisable that practices confer with their PPG to obtain acknowledgement of their festive eves arrangements.

I trust this provides clarity and helps you to approach the Alliance re: festive eves cover.  Any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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