Where to find medical help and advice over Christmas and New Year

What to do when your GP Practice is closed this Christmas and New Year

Local NHS health professionals are advising residents where to go to get medical help and advice when their GP practice is closed this festive period.

Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are reminding people that although GP practices will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, there are other services available.

For anyone who needs urgent medical help or advice they can call NHS 111 for free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or they can access the service online at 111.nhs.uk.

A number of pharmacies will be open for limited hours, on a rota on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Your pharmacist will be able to give you free advice on minor conditions and over-the-counter treatments.

You can also download the NHS App to check symptoms, book GP appointments during normal opening hours, and request repeat prescriptions.

Dr Julian Povey, Chair of Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Christmas is a busy time of year and that’s why it is really important people think about their healthcare needs.

“If you have a regular prescription, make sure you have enough to cover the festive period and you collect it in advance.

“Remember your local pharmacist can offer you free health advice without the need of an appointment, or if you are feeling unwell and need urgent health advice call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.”

Dr Jo Leahy, Chair of Telford & Wrekin CCG, said: “We can all help ourselves stay well by making sure we have the essentials to treat minor coughs, colds and sore throats ready, to hand in our medicine cabinets. Please remember, as well as looking after yourself, to pop in and check on your elderly family, friends and neighbours too.”

For more information on what you can do to stay well this winter, please visit: www.nhs.uk/staywell.