Sussex residents urged to know where to go for NHS help and support over the festive period
NHS services this week are seeing high numbers of people with seasonal illness.
As we enter the festive period, people are being urged to know where to go for appropriate NHS help and support.
People should only attend A&E or call 999 for life-threatening emergencies such as choking, severe bleeding, loss of consciousness or broken bones.
Some of our colleagues across Sussex have shared important information and advice on staying well, getting help and how to support the NHS over the busy winter period in these short videos.
As schools break up for the Christmas holidays, NHS Sussex is making sure parents and carers know where to go if their ‘little elves’ need care.
Families are encouraged to follow the simple ‘choose well’ guide:
- Treat minor cuts and grazes at home and keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet
- Visit a pharmacist for minor illnesses like sore throats, coughs or earaches – find pharmacy opening hours over the festive period
- Contact the GP practice for ongoing or non-urgent health issues – remember GP practices will be closed over the bank holidays but you can contact NHS 111 instead
- Visit a Minor Injuries Unit, Urgent Treatment Centre or walk-in centre for bumps, sprains, or rashes – see the graphic below for festive opening hours
- Use NHS 111 online or call 111 if you are unsure where to go
