Staying Well This Easter: Simple Steps to Get the Care You Need

Health leaders across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are encouraging residents to plan ahead for the Easter Bank Holiday to help ensure they can access the right care and avoid unnecessary disruption over the long weekend.

With GP practices closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday, people are being reminded to order any repeat prescriptions in good time and to check they have essential medicines at home.

Residents are also being encouraged to think about which NHS service is most appropriate if they become unwell. Community pharmacies can provide expert advice and treatment for a range of minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, sore throats, earache and stomach upsets, often without the need for an appointment.

Some pharmacies across the county will remain open over the Bank Holiday period, and people are advised to check local opening times in advance.

For urgent medical help that is not life-threatening, NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, online or by phone, offering quick advice and directing patients to the most appropriate service.

Minor Injury Units (MIUs) are also available to treat non-life-threatening injuries such as sprains, minor fractures, burns and cuts, helping to reduce pressure on emergency departments.

Minesh Parbat, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “Taking a few simple steps ahead of the Easter Bank Holiday, such as ordering your prescriptions early and knowing where to go for help, can make a real difference.

“Planning ahead means you’re more likely to get the right care, in the right place. It also helps our teams across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin focus on patients who need urgent and emergency care.”

A&E departments and 999 services should only be used for serious or life-threatening conditions, such as chest pain, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing or signs of a stroke.

By planning ahead and choosing the right service, residents can get the care they need more quickly while helping NHS teams to focus on those most in need.

For more information on pharmacy opening times, please visit the NHS Shropshire Telford and Wrekin website.