May 2024 Bank Holidays Posted or Updated on 29 Apr 2024

Get ready for the bank holiday weekend: know where to get healthcare advice

With the May bank holidays approaching (May 6^th and May 27^th), the local NHS is asking people to think carefully about how best to look after their own and their family’s health over the two long weekends.

Residents are being urged to choose services wisely and to take some simple steps to help ensure care is available to those that need it most.

You can find more information about services over the bank holiday weekends on our website or by downloading our printable guide:

Dr Anna Davey, GP lead for mid and south Essex ICB said:  "Bank holidays are always a busy time for the NHS and we need the public's help to make sure we can be there for those who need our help the most.

“Don’t forget to pack all necessary medications when visiting family and friends over the bank holiday. Those who are expecting visitors should remind them to bring their medication with them.

“If people are unwell then of course we are here to help, but we are also asking everyone to make sure they are well prepared. 

“Please make sure prescription medications are ordered as early as possible as many GP practices and pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the bank holiday weekend.  Many GP surgeries will need 72 hours’ notice to issue a repeat prescription and pharmacies need time to make sure they have the right medicines in stock and safely dispense.

“For many minor health concerns local pharmacies are able to offer clinical advice and can now supply medicines for a number of conditions, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription.”

Local pharmacies can now offer support for a range of conditions including:

·       earache (for those aged between 1 and 17),

·       impetigo

·       infected insect bites

·       shingles

·       sinusitis

·       sore throat

·      urinary tract infections (UTIs) for women aged 16-64 years

Pharmacists have the right clinical training to make sure people get the help they need and can also signpost to other local services.

For more urgent health concerns people can use the 111 online symptom checker or telephone 111 and speak to an advisor. Both services are available 24 hours a day. People should only call 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency.

Adults experiencing a mental health crisis, can speak to a mental health professional anytime, day or night, by calling NHS 111 and selecting the option for mental health. Call 0800 995 1000 for under 18s who need urgent mental health support.

The NHS App provides a simple and secure way to access a wide range of services on a smartphone or tablet. It offers access to certain NHS services online. To download the App, visit the NHS website.