Take care of yourself over the late August Bank Holiday period (August 30th)

On Monday 30 August 2021, GP practices and some pharmacies will be closed or operating reduced hours, however a range of healthcare options remain available. There will also still be some walk in vaccination centres open during the bank holiday.

To take good care of yourself over the Bank Holiday period NHS Birmingham and Solihull CCG recommends:

1. Collect prescriptions: If you have a repeat prescription, make sure you have enough medication to last the long weekend. If you are in short supply, there is still time to speak to your GP practice or pharmacy, pick up a prescription and avoid any last-minute panics.
2. Prepare for self-care: You can look after many minor illnesses and injuries with over-the-counter medicines and supplies from your pharmacist or supermarket. Check that you have basics such as paracetamol and antihistamine at home, plus a first-aid kit. A helpful guide to what you should have at home is available on the NHS website.
3. Know the location of your nearest emergency pharmacist: Emergency pharmacists will be available over the bank holiday weekend, providing advice and over-the-counter medication for minor health concerns. A list of pharmacy bank holiday opening times is available here.
4. Contact NHS 111 for urgent care: If you need urgent medical help, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk. The friendly team at 111 are available 24 hours a day, including bank holidays, and they will help you right away, providing you with the right care for your needs, including booking you an appointment with an out-of-hours GP.
5. Emergency services are for emergencies only: For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 or go to A&E. But, remember that if you arrive with a non-emergency condition, you are likely to be directed to a more appropriate service.

For more information, visit www.birminghamandsolihullccg.nhs.uk/news/1836-five-step-healthcare-check-to-stay-well-over-the-late-august-bank-holiday-weekend .

If you need mental health help over the bank holiday, visit www.bsmhft.nhs.uk/about-us/news/august-bank-holiday-message-2021/ for more information.