Where to Get Health Help During the May Bank Holiday

With another bank holiday coming up on Monday 25th May, NHS Greater Manchester is urging everyone to plan ahead and to ‘Get To Know Where To Go’ if you or someone else becomes unwell – helping to keep the bank holiday fun going. 

Every bank holiday, NHS 111 sees huge increases in people getting in touch because they’ve run out of a prescription medicine due to GP practices and pharmacies having different opening hours over the late May bank holiday weekend (find full list of hours here). 

That’s why if you take regular medicines or repeat prescriptions, it’s important to make sure you have enough to last you the long weekend and to order them with as much notice as possible – by being prepared you can save yourself time and ensure NHS 111 is there for those who really need it.      

Chief Pharmacist for NHS Greater Manchester, Kenny Li said: “It’s vital for anyone who takes medication regularly to ensure they have enough to last them over the Bank Holiday – especially if you are planning any trips away in another part of the country, or abroad – so that you don’t risk running out. 

“Planning ahead, re-stocking your medicine cabinets with both prescription and everyday health essentials for things like headaches, hay fever and hot weather and knowing when your GP practice and local pharmacy is open means you have one less thing to worry about so you can simply enjoy time off with family and friends. But please still ensure that you’re only ordering prescription medication if you need it so that we don’t risk any shortages for those that really do. 

“Ordering your repeat prescription has never been easier – either put your order in through the NHS App or order as you usually would.” 

As well as ordering prescriptions, NHS Greater Manchester wants to make sure that everyone knows where to go if they have any health issues so they can get the help they need as quickly as possible. 

Get To Know Where to Go 

• For non-emergencies call NHS 111 for free or visit online, support is available in other formats if needed.

• Local pharmacies remain an easy and convenient way to get instant expert advice about minor conditions like sore throats and urinary tract infections. And in many cases avoid the need to go to A&E or wait for a GP appointment. How pharmacies can help – NHS

• If you need support with contraception, many pharmacies can initiate oral contraception and to supply oral contraception for those already taking it. Many pharmacies also provide Emergency Hormonal Contraception (The ‘morning after pill’), in some cases free – check your local council website for more information.

• If you need urgent help when your dental practice is closed or you don’t have a regular dentist, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on 0333 332 3800. It is available 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends and bank holidays. A charge may apply.  

• 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. 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.  

• For mental health crisis support 24/7 call NHS 111 and press 2.

• For any life-threatening issues call 999 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Clinical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester said: “Bank holidays are a time to relax and enjoy with loved ones, but they can also put extra pressure on our health services, making them busier than usual. That’s why we’re encouraging people to plan ahead, to stay well and avoid unnecessary stress. 

“If you or a family member take regular medication, check your supply now and speak to your GP or pharmacy in good time. It also helps to know which local services are available and to use trusted resources like NHS 111, either by phone or online.  

“If we’re lucky enough to have hot weather or you’re travelling somewhere hot, make sure you take precautions – limiting your time in the heat if you can. When outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, drink water and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.

“A few simple steps can make a big difference – helping to ensure urgent care is there for those who need it most.”  

For more information on where to go for health advice all year round visit: Get to know where to go | Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership and for tips on staying well during a heatwave visit: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/