Get to Know Where to Go for Health Advice – May Bank Holiday Weekends
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, so check your local pharmacy.
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, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on:
0333 332 3800
It is available 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends and bank holidays, for those who need urgent help when their dental practice is closed, or do not have a regular dentist.
Eye care
Greater Manchester’s Urgent Eye Care Service can provide help quickly if you have a sudden change in vision, red or painful eyes or new flashes or floaters. The service is available throughout the week including evenings and weekends.
To find an optician that is part of the service. This is not a walk-in service so always call first.
Mental health support
For mental health crisis support there are free 24/7 helplines covering Greater Manchester. For For Bury, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport, Tameside and Glossop the number is:
0800 014 9995
For Bolton, Manchester, Salford, Trafford and Wigan residents, 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.
