GP practices and pharmacies will operate different opening hours over the May bank holiday, with many services closed on the bank holiday Monday. This can make it harder for patients to access medicines at short notice.
To avoid unnecessary stress over the holiday period, anyone who relies on repeat medication is encouraged to order in good time.
Patients should allow at least seven working days for repeat prescriptions and are asked to only order what they need to help avoid putting pressure on medicine supplies.
Every bank holiday, NHS 111 sees an increase in people getting in touch because they have run out of a prescription medicine. Planning ahead can help people stay well and ensures NHS 111 remains available for those who need urgent advice and support.
Kenny Li, chief pharmacist for NHS Greater Manchester, said: “Bank holidays can catch people out, particularly if they are travelling or visiting family. They realise too late that they do not have enough medication to last the weekend.
“The simple advice is to check what you have now, order in plenty of time and only request the medicines you would normally need. Please do not stockpile medicines, as this can contribute to shortages and affects other patients. Ordering repeat prescriptions is quick and easy through the NHS App or order as you usually would.”
As well as ordering prescriptions, NHS Greater Manchester wants to make sure that everyone knows where to go if they have any health issues so they can get the help they need as quickly as possible.
Get To Know Where to Go
- For non-emergencies call NHS 111 for free or visit online, support is available in other formats if needed.
- Local pharmacies remain an easy and convenient way to get instant expert advice about minor conditions like sore throats and urinary tract infections. And in many cases avoid the need to go to A&E or wait for a GP appointment. How pharmacies can help – NHS
- If you need urgent help when your dental practice is closed or you don’t have a regular dentist, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on 0333 332 3800. It is available 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends and bank holidays. A charge may apply.
- Greater Manchester’s Urgent Eye Care Service can provide help quickly if you have a sudden change in vision, red or painful eyes or new flashes or floaters. Go to Minor and urgent eyecare services to find an optician that is part of the service. This is not a walk-in service so always call first.
- For mental health crisis support 24/7 call NHS 111 and press 2.
- For any life-threatening issues call 999 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Visit our Get to know where to go page for more information.
Exam season
The exam season is just about to start. If your child is finding the exam period overwhelming, help is available.
Whether it’s to help build resilience and stay mentally healthy when things are feeling challenging, to talking to someone about how you’re feeling, or to find out how best to support your child, lots of help and advice can be found from services such as Kooth, Silvercloud, Young Minds, Place2Be or Qwell.
