Redbridge & Waltham Forest – Podiatry Service Update

July 23, 2026July 23, 2026

Podiatry Service Update: Changes to Access Criteria

Redbridge & Waltham Forest | June 2026

🔑 Overview

We have updated the access criteria for Podiatry services across Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

These changes ensure the service is prioritised for patients with the highest clinical need, in line with national guidance and current capacity.

✅ Revised Access Criteria

Referrals will only be accepted for:

Active diabetic foot disease (NICE NG19)
Excluding patients requiring urgent A&E care.
Non-diabetic foot ulceration requiring debridement
Excluding pressure ulcers and ulcers at the ankle or above.
History of foot ulceration (non-diabetic)
with poor skin integrity and considerable risk of re-ulceration
Nail surgery (age 8+)
where the nail is causing infection or significant pain.
MSK / Biomechanics conditions
(Paediatrics included)
Excludes children who are not yet independently mobile or newly walking.

📍 Local Referral Pathways

Redbridge
Refer high-risk diabetic patients (NICE NG19) to:

Diabetic Foot Protection Team
https://www.nelft.nhs.uk/diabetes-foot-protection-service/

Waltham Forest
Refer high-risk diabetic patients (NICE NG19) via:

📋 Impact on Current Caseload

Patients who do not meet the revised criteria will be discharged.
Patients will receive a letter that includes:
- Reason for discharge
- Clinical advice and guidance
- Alternative service signposting

📨 Referral Guidance

The Podiatry service will only accept referrals that meet the revised criteria.

Please review the criteria before submitting referrals to avoid delays and ensure patients access the most appropriate pathway.

ℹ️ Further Information

Thank you for your support in implementing these changes and helping ensure patients with the greatest clinical need receive timely specialist care.

Details can be found:

For queries, please contact the Podiatry Service: PodiatryRBWF@nelft.nhs.uk