Call NHS 111 first before going to your local A&E department, unless it is a life-threatening emergency when you should call 999.
How to access NHS 111
- call NHS 111 by dialling 111 from a landline or mobile
- go to NHS 111 online
- use the NHS App.
The service is free to use and available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
How NHS 111 works
You answer questions about your symptoms on the website or by speaking to a fully trained adviser on the phone. You can ask for a translator if you need one.
Depending on the situation, you will:
- find out which local service can help you
- be connected to a nurse, emergency dentist, pharmacist or GP
- get a face-to-face appointment if you need one
- be told how to get any medicine you need
- get self-care advice
Staying safe during Covid-19
Contacting NHS 111 first will help NHS urgent and emergency care services maintain social distancing and ensure that you receive the right care in the right place, in a timely and safe way.
Minor Injuries
If you have a minor injury such as a sprain, strain, broken bone or minor head injury, you can also go straight to your local Minor Injury Unit (MIU) or Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) in Yate, Hengrove or Clevedon.
Pharmacies
Your local pharmacist can give advice and medication for ailments ranging from colds, flu and upset stomachs to urinary tract infections, threadworm, dandruff, insect bites and stings.
Self-care
Self-care is perfect if your condition is something you will be able to treat at home, such as coughs, colds and common childhood illnesses.