Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what plans he has to ensure that the well-being of GPs and their staff is safeguarded for those working in GP surgeries extending their opening hours.

Practices who work outside what might be considered normal working hours either as a pilot testing new access arrangements or by offering appointments under an extended hours scheme are responsible for ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of both themselves and the staff they employ.

The guidance on the Extended Hours Direct Enhanced Service states that in developing arrangements for extending opening hours, commissioners and practices should consider how identified risks to safety and security of both practice staff and patients could be mitigated.