• People in Bolton urged to NHS 111 online for non-emergency medical advice over bank holiday
• Royal Bolton Hospital’s Emergency Department here to help in life or limb-threatening emergencies
• Advise issued to help people stay safe in the sun as warm weather continues

People in Bolton are being urged to use NHS 111 online as their first point of contact for non-emergency medical advice over the summer bank holiday (Saturday 23 August to Monday 25 August).

With the warm weather continuing into the long weekend, Royal Bolton Hospital’s Emergency Department 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.

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 or providing advice.

Appointments can be booked through NHS 111 for the Urgent Treatment Centre at Royal Bolton Hospital, which can deal with both illnesses and minor injuries.

Dr Francis Andrews, Medical Director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

During periods of warmer weather and during bank holiday weekends we can see a rise in demand for our services, particularly in the Emergency Department.

“We’re always here to help in a life or limb-threatening emergency, but we’re asking for your help by choosing the right service for your needs and making sure we’re able to provide vital care to our most poorly patients.

“If you’re unsure, NHS 111 online provides really useful information for your symptoms and can direct you to the most suitable service. For minor conditions, you can also visit your local GP or pharmacy.

Planning ahead will mean people will be less likely to need help from the NHS during bank holiday. This includes making sure people have enough regularly prescribed medication and keeping medicine cabinets at home stocked with essential basic medicines to avoid 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.

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.

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.

“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.

Get to know where to go this bank holiday

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

Urgent Dental Care

If your dental practice is closed or you don’t have a regular dentist, contact the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on 0333 332 3800 (available 8am – 10pm daily, including bank holidays). Please note that charges may apply unless you receive certain benefits.

Urgent Eye Care

Greater Manchester’s Urgent Eyecare Service (UES) provides free NHS treatment. Go to the website to find your nearest participating optician.