Could anyone give me some advice please on whether it is better to set the ball rolling to register in the french system while still in the UK, or wait until we come to France in the next month or two?

I've noted the recent comments on having to get certified and translated copies of your birth certificates and will organise this, but are there any other similar paperwork hurdles that you could suggest I cover off before coming out?

Many thanks in advance for any help.

If you've been paying NI in the UK for the past three years ring the Pensions place at Newcastle and ask for an S1 form. Likewise if you are in receipt of a state pension. This will give you up to 70% towards any French health charges. If you are under retirement age and qualify for an S1 it will be for about two years, then you'll have to get private health care, get a job or start a business to get cover. For an OAP the S1 will provide some cover for life but you'll still need a top up.

When you arrive in France take your S1 with all relevant proofs and documents (and cheque book) to your nearest C.P.A.M. (address in www.pagesjaunes.fr°)

Good luck.

Many thanks for your help with this.

Having done a bit more digging myself, I am now more confused than when I started off. My husband is quite significantly disabled and we have previously been led to believe by DWP that because of this status we (I am his carer) would be entitled to fully funded health cover. Is this not now correct?

Thanks in advance for anything anyone can help with.

You will have to ask at Newcastle what you will be entitled to, every case is different and there is no stock answer. But in any case it would be rather difficult for you to register in the French health care system until you live here as living here is part of the qualification.

He can automatically get an S1 form if he receives Incapacity Benefit (or the new replacement for this). However, he cannot get an S1 through DLA (and only the Care element is exportable) and neither can you through Carers Allowance.

As stated, you can't start the process before you live here. As you've noted there's been extensive discussion across many forums on this subject and whatever you do, if you can't afford the top-up insurance and are not eligible for full cover, don't consider moving here until you are absolutely sure.

Thanks to everyone for the responses.

I will be speaking to Newcastle on Monday and will post their advice in the hope that it might be useful to others in the future.