Health services across the North West will be under pressure and A&E departments and the 111 phone service will be busy, so leaders are helping the public to know the best way to access care during that time.

People are also being reminded to take necessary precautions to avoid becoming unwell in the heat by staying out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, planning physical activity during times of the day when it is cooler, ensuring they drink plenty of water, applying sunscreen, and limiting alcohol intake.

NHS 111 online works the same as the 111 phone service and is already popular with people who want quick advice about the best options for getting the care they need.  These can include getting a call back from a trained clinician or nurse, booking them an appointment in A&E, or providing advice.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said: “This weekend and the period after it will be another extremely busy time for our 111 health advisors and clinicians and our doctors and nurses and other health professionals working in our A&Es.

“The public can help us by using the right service for their needs, including 111 online for quick and easy medical help. It can direct people to the right service quickly, as well as providing medical advice, and helps to keep urgent and emergency services free for the most seriously ill and injured patients.”

Planning ahead will mean people will be less likely to need help from the NHS during bank holiday. This includes making sure you have enough regularly prescribed medication and keeping your medicine cabinet at home stocked with essential basic medicines avoiding unnecessary trips to GPs or A&E, including pain relief, cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, antihistamines, and basic first aid items like plasters and antiseptic cream.

Most of these items can be easily purchased at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Don’t forget to check the expiry dates on your medicines and replace anything that is out of date.

Dr Gregory added: “We are extremely grateful to the dedicated teams across the NHS in the North West who will be working tirelessly over the coming bank holiday to ensure all those that need care receive it and it is vital the public know the best way to access care during this time.

“In the event of a life or limb threatening emergency people should always continue to call 999 or attend A&E.”

Dave Cooksey, ICC Service Delivery Manager for North West Ambulance Service, said, “We always prepare for an increase in 111 calls over bank holidays. Some services, such as GP surgeries, may be closed meaning that more people turn to 111 for urgent medical advice.

“Many minor symptoms, such as sore throats, hoarse voices and earaches, can usually be managed at home, so having a well-stocked medicine cupboard can help you treat these yourself and avoid the need to call. 

“Despite ensuring we are staffed appropriately, waiting times on the phone may be longer over the bank holiday. You can save time by using the online service where you will still receive a call back from a clinician if required.”

111.nhs.uk can help you with:

• where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do
• how to find general health information and advice
• where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
• how to get a repeat prescription
• getting emergency dental appointments

You should still ring 999 if you or someone else experience:

• signs of a heart attack like pain like a heavy weight in the centre of your chest
• signs of stroke such as your face dropping on one side
• difficulty breathing
• heavy bleeding that won’t stop
• seizures
• or sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat, or tongue

Your local pharmacist can also provide advice and treatment for a wide range of minor conditions. You can find your nearest pharmacy by going to find your pharmacy.

• sinusitis
• sore throat
• earache
• infected insect bites and stings
• impetigo
• shingles
• uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) in women

NHS 111 online is not available for children under 5. People looking for urgent medical help for under 5s should use the 111 phone line.