Health leaders urge people to follow 5 hacks for a safer Christmas and New Year

With the NHS facing extreme pressures in the run-up to Christmas, health leaders are pleading with people to take simple actions such as stocking up on any medications they need over the festive period.

A spike in patients with flu and other winter illnesses has placed additional demand on hospital services.

As well as high numbers of seriously unwell patients needing specialist care, more people are going to St George’s, Epsom and St Helier’s A&Es compared to last December – with a 10% jump at Epsom and St Helier and a 6% rise at St George’s.

Demand is expected to remain high over Christmas and New Year – and there are steps the public can take to help the NHS, themselves, and their loved ones in the coming weeks and throughout winter:

If you have an urgent healthcare need that isn’t an emergency, NHS 111 online – a 24/7 service – should be the first port of call, as this can direct you to the best place for your symptoms. You can also call 111 for urgent mental health concerns in South West London, and Surrey residents can access 24-hour mental health support via 0800 915 4644.
Pharmacists can provide advice and treatment for minor illnesses like colds, earaches, sore throats, and UTIs. They may also prescribe medication for certain conditions. Many local pharmacies stay open late, no appointment is needed, and some will be open over Christmas.
Collect any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you may need ahead of the bank holidays.
Protect yourself against winter illnesses by getting vaccinated against winter illnesses such as flu, Covid and RSV if you’re eligible. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water to prevent the spread of norovirus – hand sanitisers are not effective against this common sickness bug.
If you can, check in on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours to ensure they have food, medication, and warm clothing.

Theresa Matthews, Chief Nurse, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “We’re extremely busy, and our dedicated nurses, doctors, therapists and other staff are working hard in very challenging circumstances to care for our patients.

“While we’re always here for people in genuine need, please consider whether our emergency departments are the best place to come if you are feeling unwell, and whether another service such as NHS 111 or a pharmacy may be more appropriate.”

Nicola Shopland, Chief Nurse, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re coming into our busiest time of year, and our hospitals are under extreme pressure. Our incredible staff will be working over Christmas to keep people safe and well, and we cannot thank them enough – but there are steps everyone can take to help them.

“As well as using the most appropriate service for your healthcare need, getting vaccinated against flu, Covid and RSV is the best Christmas present you can give the NHS. These will also protect you and your loved ones this winter.”

For more advice on accessing services and how to stay safe and well this winter, visit: https://www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk/news-and-events/where-to-get-medical-help-and-how-to-stay-safe-and-well-this-winter-6734