Pip

Hello. I have friends who are retired and about to move permanently to France. They are very concerned that if they live abroad for more than half the year, they will no longer be entitled to treatment on the NHS. (I'm not sure why this is a problem, given French healthcare, but it's worrying them, perhaps because their French isn't very strong.) I've read the postings about the E111 and the new card, and top-up insurance policies while in France. Any advice or information about treatment in the UK once resident officially in France would be very gratefully received. Thanks. Pip

Hello. I'm just about to drive over to Belfort with my dog: my partner has a job out there for a year. I think we'll be going through the tunnel so Bruce (the dog) and I can stay together, but I have done some research into ferry crossings. I found this on a website, covering all ferry crossings leaving Britain, I think. P&O Dover, P&O Portsmouth & Hoverspeed: Pets must remain in the vehicle during the crossings - Owners do not have access to their pets during the crossing. Hoverspeed also insist that animals must be secured inside the vehicle (eg. in a cat box, or in the boot behind a dog guard). Brittany Ferries: Pets must remain in the vehicle during the crossings - Owners may see their pets during the crossing, but must be accompanied by a member of staff. Stena Line You can choose for your pet to travel in your car or in a kennel aboard the ship. Guide dogs are allowed to travel on the passenger decks with their owners. P&O North Sea Ferries Hull Pets are accommodated in the on board kennels - Owners may see their pets during the crossing. I hope this is useful to you. Good luck with the journeys! Pip