Where you can find medical help this Christmas and New Year

3 December 2024

When it comes to your health, being prepared is key. If you or a loved one falls ill during the holidays, knowing which service is best suited to your needs can make all the difference.

Your GP practice may be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day, but a range of NHS services are still available depending on your medical needs.

Pharmacists are trained health professionals who can free advice or signpost you to the relevant care and provide over-the-counter treatments. They can also advise on issues such as:

Cold and flu
Tummy troubles
Sore eyes
Rashes
Sinusitis
Sore throat
Earache
Infected insect bites
Impetigo
Shingles
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women; and
Sexual health.

To check the pharmacy opening times this Christmas and News Year period, please click here to read further information.

Please remember, for life-threatening emergencies such as a stroke or heart attack, always contact 999. You can find further information on the NHS website for the signs of stroke or heart attack.

For non-emergencies, you can also contact NHS 111 online or call 111 free from landlines and mobile phones. The service is available 24 hours a day, including Bank Holidays, and after answering a few questions you will be directed to the best place to get the medical help and advice you need.

For more information, please visit: