The NHS pledges to provide services at a time that’s convenient for you. Outside normal surgery hours you can still phone your GP surgery, but you’ll usually be directed to an out-of-hours service.
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you need medical help now, but it’s not an emergency.
You can also visit an urgent care service, such as an NHS walk-in centre, urgent care centre or minor injuries unit.
These can provide treatment for minor injuries or illnesses, such as cuts, bruises and rashes.
They have proved to be a successful complementary service to traditional GP and A&E services.
Some urgent care services offer access to doctors, as well as nurses. But they’re not designed for treating long-term conditions or immediately life-threatening problems.
You don’t need to be registered and you don’t need an appointment. Any member of the public can simply walk in to be seen, regardless of where they’re registered. Some offer pre-booked appointments.
In an emergency you should call 999
Chest pain/shortness of breath constitute an emergency.
Please do NOT use this service for anything other than an emergency
Dental emergency and out-of-hours care
If you need urgent dental treatment, contact your usual dental Practice. They may be able to see you or direct you to an urgent dental care service.
If you don’t have a regular dentist, contact NHS 111 for advice on where you can get urgent care.
The cost of emergency dental treatment is currently £21.60. You may be advised to make another appointment for a separate course of non-urgent treatment.
If this happens, you’ll have to pay a second charge in the relevant treatment band.
