The local NHS is encouraging people to use NHS 111 online for health advice whilst GP practices are closed during the summer bank holiday (29 August 2022).

North West Ambulance Service, which manages the region’s NHS 111 service, recommends the public use NHS 111 online to get health advice during the August bank holiday weekend.

The online service can get you help quicker than over the phone – which can have long wait times during busy periods like bank holidays.

NHS 111 online provides the same advice and help as the phoneline, such as getting a call back from a trained clinician or nurse or booking you an appointment at A&E.

NHS 111 online can also tell you:

• 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
• how to get emergency dental appointments

Please note that NHS 111 online is not suitable for children under 5.

You should still ring 999 if you experience:

• signs of a heart attack like pain 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
• or sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat or tongue

To access NHS 111 online, go to 111.nhs.uk

BSL users can also use the NHS 111 video interpreter service by going to: www.interpreternow.co.uk/nhs111

If you cannot use online services, call 111.