How to get help over the Easter Bank Holiday
The Easter Bank Holiday is one of the busiest periods for the NHS. GP practices and some pharmacies will have limited opening hours which can make it more difficult to get medicines at short notice.
It’s important to be prepared and make sure you have your prescription ordered at least two weeks in advance to avoid any complications or delays.
You can also be prepared by stocking up your medicine cabinet with over-the-counter medicines to manage common illnesses at home. Make sure you have pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, antihistamines and a first-aid kit with plasters, antiseptic and eyewash solution.
You can also visit your local pharmacy without the need for an appointment, however, many pharmacies will operate reduced hours or be closed over the bank holiday weekend, so check your local pharmacy.
Bank Holiday Pharmacy Opening Hours
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Self-care
Many illnesses and minor injuries don’t always need a doctor or a nurse (or any other health professional). Sometimes rest, lots of water and over- the-counter medicines (available at supermarkets or your local pharmacy or chemist) can help your recovery at home. For advice on treating a range of minor illnesses and injuries at home, go to nhs.uk.
NHS 111
If you’re not sure what to do or where to go, go to 111.nhs.uk. It’s available 24/7, 365 days a year. You can find out how to get the right healthcare in your area, including whether you need to see a GP or seek urgent care or get advice on self-care. NHS 111 offers a British Sign Language (BSL) service that is open 24/7.
Dental care
If you have pain in your mouth, teeth or gums, you will need to contact a dentist – your GP practice won’t be able to help. Contact your regular dentist, if you have one. If they’re closed, or you do not have a regular dentist, call the Greater Manchester Urgent Dental Care Service on 0333 332 3800. There will be a charge to access urgent dental treatment unless you receive some benefits.
Mental health support
Mental health support will continue to be available throughout the bank holiday period. For urgent help in a mental health crisis, freephone your local 24-hour helpline:
- Bury, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport, and Tameside and Glossop call 0800 014 9995
- Bolton, Manchester, Salford, Trafford and Wigan call 0800 953 0285
If there is a medical emergency, where someone is seriously injured or their life is at risk, the public should dial 999.
Visit Get To Know Where To Go for more information and advice.
