Get the right care, in the right place, at the right time this winter

As we head into the festive bank holidays, our hospitals – like the wider NHS – will be under increased pressure. But please don’t delay coming forward for the care you need.

If you’re unsure where to go, NHS 111 is there to help. You can call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for urgent health advice, including support with mental health. In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999 straight away. NHS 111 can also help you find the best place for your care – this could be your local pharmacy, dentist, GP surgery, or urgent and emergency care service.

To avoid any delays in getting essential medicines over the bank holidays, remember to order your prescriptions in good time – you can request repeat prescriptions through the NHS App or directly from your GP practice.

And remember that your local pharmacist is trained to help with many minor illnesses and can now provide some prescription medicines for seven common conditions, including earache, sore throat, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Some pharmacies will have different opening hours over Christmas. Use the Find a pharmacy service to check what’s open near you.

The NHS website also has helpful winter health advice – including tips on staying warm, getting help with heating, and supporting those most at risk from cold weather, such as older neighbours, friends or relatives.

Finally, we recognise that the festive period can be lonely and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Please know that support is available for whatever you’re experiencing. If you need help now, you can contact the NHS urgent mental health helplines.