If you need support for your health outside of the standard opening hours of your local GP, there are places that you can go for support.

Where you can go to get help out of hours

The NHS pledges to provide services at a time that's convenient for you. They have produced guidance on how best to access services outside of hours.

• Phone NHS 111: This service is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provides medical advice and the details of the services closest to you that help you deal with your need following a medical assessment. 
• Visit your local pharmacy: Your pharmacist can help you with some issues. Find out how.
• Visit your nearest NHS walk-in centre: If you need treatment for minor injuries or illnesses such as cuts, bruises and rashes, you can visit your nearest NHS walk-in centre, urgent care centre or minor injuries unit. These are not suitable for treating long-term conditions. You do not need an appointment or to be registered to be seen at one of these services. You may be referred to one of these services by NHS 111, or walk in.

Should I go to A&E?

Accident and Emergency departments are for serious or life-threatening emergencies and aren't an alternative to a GP appointment. You should go to your nearest A&E if you require urgent medical attention.

For example, if you're experiencing:

• loss of consciousness
• chest pain
• breathing difficulties
• fits that are not stopping
• severe bleeding that won't stop
• severe allergic reactions
• severe burns or scalds
• stroke
• major trauma

Not all hospitals have an A&E department. Use the A&E service search to find your nearest A&E department, or read the guidance from the NHS to learn more about when to go to A&E.

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