NHS 111
Not sure which NHS service you need? When you use the right NHS service, you get the right treatment sooner. If you’re not sure what to do or where to go, go to 111.nhs.uk.
NHS 111 is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
If you do not have internet access, you can call 111.
If you have a hearing problem, use text relay. Call 18001 111 using the Relay UK app or a text phone.
NHS 111 also offers a British Sign Language service here. If there is a medical emergency, always dial 999.
A&E
A&E is for life threatening accidents and emergencies. In a medical emergency, call 999 or attend your nearest A&E department.
Pharmacy First Service
Did you know your pharmacist can give you expert advice on treating minor illnesses or injuries? So, if you find yourself with a sore throat or your little one is teething, your community pharmacy can see you without an appointment and recommend over-the-counter medicines. They can also prescribe medicines for some minor conditions too:
- acute sore throat (5 years+)
- coughs and colds
- tummy upsets
- earache (1-17 years)
- skin rashes (including shingles for adults and impetigo for 1 year+)
- sinusitis (12 years+)
- urinary tract infections (females, 16-64yrs, no UTI in last 3 months, not pregnant or breastfeeding, not immunocompromised)
- emergency contraception
- medication queries
Most pharmacies will have a consultation room so you can talk to them in private. If they cannot treat the issue, they can direct you to another service that can help. Information from your consultation with the pharmacist will be sent to your GP practice.
If you are away from home, you can use the NHS website to find a pharmacy open near you:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy/
Please see the below video which covers the ways the Pharmacy First service may be able to help you.
Out of Hours GP Service
The GP out-of-hours service is there if you need urgent medical care when your GP practice is closed. For details on how to access the service, call the practice and listen to the recorded message. Alternatively, you can contact 111 to access this service.
Mental Health Services
Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option if you, or someone you know, is in a mental health crisis. Available 24/7, you’ll speak to a mental health professional who can help you find the right support. If there’s an immediate risk to life, ring 999 or go to A&E.
If you feel like you need to talk to someone, any time of day or night, you can contact the below free listening services:
- call Samaritans on 116 123
- text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 or text ‘YM’ if you’re under the age of 19
- if you are under 19, you can call Childline on 0800 1111 and the number will not show on your phone bill
Click here for more information on mental health support.
Urgent Treatment Centres
Urgent treatment centres or walk-in centres are there if you need urgent medical help that’s not serious or life-threatening. You can find your nearest urgent care service via 111. They may be able to treat issues such as sprains and strains, suspected broken bones, cuts, bites and stings, minor burns, ear and throat infections, skin rashes, temperatures, stomach pain and emergency contraception. Please contact your nearest urgent treatment centre online or via telephone before visiting. Find out more about urgent treatment centres here.
Urgent Dental Service
If you have pain in your mouth, teeth or gums, you will need to contact your regular dentist. If they’re closed or you do not have a regular dentist, call the Greater Manchester Urgent Dental Care Service on 0333 332 3800. They are available 8am to 10pm every day. They may offer you a face-to-face appointment, advice or pain relief. There is an NHS patient charge of £26.80 for an appointment but it is free for children. You can use this service if you have severe swelling and pain that is getting worse, dental trauma (e.g. loss of tooth), severe lockjaw or dental injuries/illnesses that will exacerbate a long term condition such as diabetes.
Urgent Eyecare Service
If you have a recent problem with your eyes, such as sore eyes, red eyes or visual disturbance, you can be assessed and treated by the local Minor Eye Conditions Service. This is a free NHS service available at many local opticians for people who are registered with a local GP. You do not need a GP referral to use this service. It is available for adults and children; children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Please use the link below to find a clinic near you and please telephone the clinic first to book an appointment.
