Order repeat prescriptions in good time this festive season
GP practices and pharmacies will have different opening hours over Christmas and New Year and will be closed on Wednesday 25th December and Thursday 26th December, then again over the New Year period on Wednesday 1st January 2025 – making it harder for patients to access medicines at short notice. NHS Greater Manchester are urging people to order repeat prescriptions in good time.
Order what you need from your GP surgery by Friday 13th December at the latest.
Every bank holiday and festive season, NHS 111 sees huge increases in people getting in touch because they’ve run out of a prescription medicine. By being prepared, you can save yourself time and ensure NHS 111 is there for those who really need it during the busy winter months.
But in the event that they don’t have enough, please do still contact NHS 111 who will be able to help.
Pharmacies
Local pharmacies remain an easy and convenient way to get instant expert advice about minor conditions – and in many cases avoid the need to go to A&E or wait for a GP appointment. Under Pharmacy First, your pharmacist can now assess and treat more conditions including sore throats and urinary tract infections without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. If your health issue isn’t one of the Pharmacy First conditions or something a pharmacist can’t already help with, you may be advised to see your GP. How pharmacies can help.
Dental help
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. A charge may apply.
Eye care help
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.
Go to Minor and urgent eyecare services to find an optician that is part of the service. This is not a walk-in service so always call first.
Mental health crisis support
For mental health crisis support there are free 24/7 helplines covering Greater Manchester.
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.
