08 Apr 2022

Healthcare leaders are sharing advice for getting the help you need in St Helens over the Easter bank holiday weekend (15-18 April) should you become unwell.

 

NHS 111

People who need urgent NHS care, but it is not a 999 emergency, are advised to contact NHS 111 which is staffed by trained professionals and clinicians who will direct people to the most appropriate health service.

Dr Mike Ejuoneatse, local GP and Medical Director at NHS St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Although there are changes to some healthcare services over the bank holiday weekend, if you’re feeling unwell, there is plenty of help and advice available from NHS 111 – who can also book you an appointment with a GP, at the Urgent Treatment Centre or at A&E if it is needed.

“We advise you to ‘think 111 first’ and contact the team either by visiting 111.nhs.uk online to answer some questions about your condition, or by calling 111 over the phone.”

 

Planning ahead

Opening times for services such as pharmacies and GP practices may change over the bank holiday, so residents are advised to plan ahead to make sure they know where to go for help. Healthcare leaders are also urging residents to make sure they have enough supply of any medications they need by ordering their repeat prescriptions early, and getting their medicine cabinet stocked up with essentials.

Dr Ejuoneatse added: “If you do rely on medication for long term conditions, don’t leave it too late to order your repeat prescriptions before Good Friday. Many pharmacies change their opening hours over the bank holiday weekend so it’s best to be prepared.

“Pharmacists are also there for you for help with common ailments should you need them. They are highly qualified health professionals who can give free, confidential advice and help you get the right medications for everyday illnesses.”

 

Easter bank holiday pharmacy opening times

A number of pharmacies are open on Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Residents are advised to check the opening times in the link below and to call their local pharmacy before travelling, just to make sure nothing has changed and that they are still open.

You can view the pharmacies that will be open over the bank holiday on the CCG website here: https://www.sthelensccg.nhs.uk/your-health/medicines-and-prescriptions/community-pharmacy-bank-holiday-opening-times/