How to Get Help When We Are Closed

 

Key Information

  • The Helpline: It is important to know how to get urgent medical help when the surgery is closed, including overnight, weekends, and bank holidays.
  • The Solution: Your first point of contact should be NHS 111 — your 24/7 urgent care helpline.
  • The Goal: Knowing the right service saves time and ensures you are assessed by the most appropriate team.

When to Use NHS 111

NHS 111 is for urgent medical problems that cannot safely wait until the surgery reopens, but are not life-threatening emergencies.

  • Call: Dial 111, free from any phone.
  • Online: Visit 111.nhs.uk.

What NHS 111 Can Do

When you contact NHS 111, trained advisors supported by clinicians will assess your symptoms.

They can:

  • Give self-care advice.
  • Arrange for you to speak to a clinician.
  • Book an appointment at an out-of-hours service if needed.
  • Direct you to the best place to get help.

What NHS 111 Cannot Do

NHS 111 cannot help with routine administrative tasks. Please wait until the surgery reopens for:

  • Routine illnesses, such as coughs, colds, or infections.
  • Managing long-term health conditions.
  • Medication reviews.
  • Non-urgent appointments.

When to Call 999

If you have a life-threatening emergency, do not call NHS 111. Call 999 immediately.

This includes:

  • Chest pain.
  • Severe bleeding.
  • Difficulty breathing.

What Happens Next?

If your issue is routine and can wait until we reopen, please use our online service.

Submit A Request

Further Information

To access the NHS 111 online service now, please click the link below.

NHS 111 Online

Last reviewed: 31 December 2025
Next review due: 31 December 2028