Southport residents think 111 first this August Bank Holiday

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The NHS is expecting an extremely busy weekend over the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend and is encouraging anyone who needs to check symptoms or get healthcare help or advice to ‘think 111 first’ and use the NHS 111 online service: www.111.nhs.uk.

The 111 online service offers patients quick advice and the best options for getting the care they need, which can include getting a call back from a trained clinician or nurse, booking them an appointment in A&E, or providing advice on how to help them recover.

Dedicated

Jan Leonard, primary care lead for Sefton at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: “We are extremely grateful to the dedicated teams across Sefton who will be working hard over the coming Bank Holiday weekend to ensure all those that need care receive it.

“If you need help, please use NHS 111 online first, this will ensure everyone who needs medical advice can access it quickly and conveniently, while allowing staff in our A&Es to continue to care for the most seriously ill and injured patients.

24/7

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Bank Holidays, and can also be accessed by phone by calling 111. NHS 111 online is not suitable for under 5s.

111.nhs.uk can help you with:

  • where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do
  • how to find general health information and advice
  • where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
  • how to get a repeat prescription
  • get emergency dental appointments

You should still ring 999 if you experience:

  • signs of a heart attack like pain like a heavy weight in the centre of your chest
  • signs of stroke such as your face dropping on one side
  • difficulty breathing
  • heavy bleeding that won’t stop
  • seizures
  • sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat or tongue

Plan ahead

Sefton residents are also advised to plan ahead for any medication they need, and to order their repeat prescriptions early, to make sure they have enough supply while some services are closed over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Some local pharmacies in Sefton might have different opening hours over the bank holiday weekend, which can be found on the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside website.

 Residents are advised to phone ahead before travelling to a pharmacy, as opening times may be subject to change.