Stay well this winter
NHS111
If you do need help over the winter, call 111 or visit NHS 111 online it's free to call from landlines and mobiles and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NHS 111 is a non-emergency service you can use if you are unsure of which healthcare service you need to visit. It offers access to advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by phone and online and can connect callers to healthcare professionals, including nurses, emergency dentists or GPs.
The advisors at NHS111 can also arrange face-to-face appointments, and if assessed as needing an ambulance, send one directly. A call back by a clinician can also be requested using NHS111 online, based on health care need.
Keep warm
It is important to keep warm in winter – both inside and outdoors - as it can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes pneumonia and depression. Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F); if you can, you might prefer your living room to be slightly warmer.
Winter can be seriously bad for our health but there a number of things you can do to keep you and your family well this winter.
Your local pharmacy can help
See a pharmacist early if you start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cough or cold, don’t wait until it gets more serious, get help from your pharmacist. The sooner you get advice the better – pharmacists are here to help you stay well this winter. Find your nearest pharmacy.
Stock up
If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics or other medication, don’t forget to pick up your prescription before the Christmas holidays start. Many GPs and pharmacies will close over the holidays. It’s also a good idea to have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home to help you with pain relief and minor injuries.