374 NHS Primary Care Bulletin - 29 January 2026

Introduction

This article summarises the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin for 29 January 2026, the weekly email update for teams in general practice, dentistry, community pharmacy, and optometry.

This week's bulletin highlights key updates regarding the 2026/27 COVID-19 vaccination service registration, the upcoming Spring COVID-19 vaccination campaign training webinars, and important information about the Pharmacy Quality Scheme 2025/26 declaration period. Additionally, various initiatives aimed at improving care delivery and supporting healthcare professionals are discussed.

Final reminder for COVID-19 vaccination service registration

GPs and community pharmacies have until 23:59 on 2 February to register for the 2026/27 COVID-19 vaccination service. GPs can sign up via CQRS and complete the data collection form, while community pharmacy contractors must use this registration form. Signing up is crucial for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in time for the Spring campaign, which also requires participation in the adult flu vaccination service.

Spring 2026 COVID-19 vaccination campaign: training webinars

To support the new provider-led vaccine supply model, NHS England is hosting training webinars from 23 February to 11 March. Sessions will provide guidance on ordering vaccines, managing allocations, and using the Federated Data Platform. Details are available for GP Practice Providers and All Other Providers. Full session details can be found on the vaccine and screening NHS Futures workspace.

Help design the new NHS Online trust

Healthcare professionals are invited to contribute to the design of NHS Online, a new digital hospital set to launch in 2027. This initiative aims to enhance access to specialist care via the NHS App. Professionals referring patients to services in Eye Care, Gynaecology, Urology, or Gastroenterology are encouraged to sign up for a research interview here.

Support for survivors of rape and sexual assault

In recognition of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week beginning 2 February, NHS England emphasises the availability of sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) across England. These centres provide crucial support for those affected by sexual violence. More information about local SARCs can be found on the NHS.uk website.

Accessible Information Standards: call for evidence

NHS England has launched a Call for Evidence to improve the Accessible Information Standard (AIS). They request input from organisations, including primary care providers, regarding the impacts of AIS implementation. Submissions should be made via Microsoft Forms by 11 February 2026.

New insights into NHS prescribing for care home patients

The latest NHSBSA prescribing data for care home residents aged 65 and over is now available. This report offers insights into geographical prescribing patterns which can aid local medicine optimisation efforts. The full report can be downloaded from the NHSBSA website or requests can be sent to [email protected].

Enhanced online registration service

Bradford on Avon and Melksham Health have successfully transitioned to the Register with a GP Surgery online service, which streamlines the registration process and enhances accuracy. This move replaces manual processes with digital submissions, thus improving patient experience. More information can be found on the NHS England Digital website.

Updated children and young people’s eating disorder guidance

New guidance aims to enhance the provision of services for children and young people suffering from eating disorders. The approach integrates multiple support systems, ensuring timely access to appropriate interventions. The guidance, along with the updated Technical Reporting Guidance, is available alongside implementation resources on NHS Futures.

Lower threshold for bowel screening

NHS England will lower the threshold for the bowel screening test (FIT), which will enhance early detection of bowel cancers among those aged 50 to 74. The adjustment is anticipated to identify more than 600 new cancers annually, improving patient outcomes. Additional details can be found on NHS Futures.

Pharmacy Quality Scheme 2025/26 declaration period

The declaration period for the Pharmacy Quality Scheme (PQS) for 2025/26 opens on 2 February 2026. Community pharmacy contractors must submit their declarations through the Manage Your Service portal by 27 February to receive payment.

Antimicrobial Stewardship Clinical Audit reminder

Contractors participating in the PQS are reminded to begin the Antimicrobial Stewardship Clinical Audit by 3 February 2026, with data submission due by 31 March 2026. Guidance is available here.

Promote Pharmacy First campaign

February's Pharmacy First campaign runs from 2 to 22 February. Contractors can fulfil campaign requirements through promotional activities within their pharmacies. Resources are available on the DHSC Campaign Resource Centre.

National violence prevention and reduction learning event

A national session on Violence Prevention and Reduction will be held on 4 March, focusing on strategies to enhance safety for NHS staff. NHS colleagues can register for participation on NHS England’s website.

Freedom to Speak Up engagement

NHS England seeks feedback on the future of the Freedom to Speak Up initiative ahead of the National Guardian’s Office closure in June. An engagement pack and an engagement survey are now available.

NHS ConfedExpo 2026

Professionals can now book their place for NHS ConfedExpo 2026, taking place in June. Free tickets are available for certain attendees.

Content in this article is drawn from the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin. Patient.info edits and formats the updates to provide a clear, accessible archive for professionals. View the original email here.