Getting help straight away
NHS Direct - tel: 0845 46 47
NHS Direct is a 24 hour confidential telephone advice line that is staffed by nurses and other professional advisors. NHS Direct is the first point of contact for people seeking medical help inside and outside normal doctor's surgery hours. It can offer information on:
- What to do if you or a family member is feeling unwell.
- Particular health conditions such as coughs and burns.
- Local health services including doctors, dentists or after hours pharmacies.
- Self help or support organisations.
- If you, your partner or a family member need to see a doctor or call an ambulance. If it is an emergency, NHS Direct will call an ambulance for you.
NHS direct also offers health advice and information via the internet at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.
NHS walk in centres
NHS walk in centres give you access to health advice and treatment for minor illnesses or injuries. You do not need to be registered; you can simply walk in with no appointment. They are run by experienced NHS nurses and are usually open 7 days a week, 365 days per year from early in the morning to late in the evening. They provide a variety of services including:
- Assessment by a nurse.
- Treatment for minor illnesses and injuries such as colds, (non sexually transmitted) infections, cuts and sprains.
- Advice on how to stay healthy.
- Information on other health services such as out of hours doctors and dentists.
To find your nearest walk in centre call NHS direct or go to www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.
