Health professionals urge: ‘Plan ahead for Bank Holidays’

As the August Bank Holiday approaches, health professionals within local community pharmacies and at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are urging people across the county to plan ahead for their medication needs to ensure they have essential prescriptions in time.

With General Practices closed on Monday 25 August 2025, it is crucial for patients who rely on repeat prescriptions to order them well in advance and to make sure they have enough to see them through.

Running out of vital medication can cause unnecessary health risks and pressure on urgent care services, so patients should be requesting their medication as soon as possible, either through their GP practice, the NHS App, or through the Prescription Ordering Direct (POD) service. You can contact POD by completing this online form, emailing shropshire.pod@nhs.net or calling 03333 583 509.

Although some pharmacies will be closed over the Bank Holiday, some will remain open to provide expert advice, over-the-counter treatments, and emergency medication where appropriate. To find pharmacy opening times over the August Bank Holiday, please visit: http://bit.ly/4lq0Ti7

Minesh Parbat, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “Your local community pharmacist and their team can help with many minor illnesses like coughs, colds, sore throats, earache, and skin rashes. They’re experts in medicines and everyday health.

“During the August Bank Holiday, some pharmacies will be open so you can still get trusted health advice and treatment for common conditions. Make sure to check your pharmacy’s Bank Holiday opening hours before you head out.

“Before ordering, please check what medicines you already have at home and only request what you genuinely need. By doing so, you can help us prevent medicine shortages, reduce risks at home, and minimise environmental harm. Think Twice, Order Right.”

For life-threatening emergencies, such as signs of a stroke or heart attack, always call 999 immediately. For non-emergencies, you can contact NHS 111 online or call 111 free from landlines and mobiles. This service is available 24 hours a day, including Bank Holidays, and will guide you to the most appropriate medical help and advice after answering a few questions.