Where to get medical help and how to stay safe and well this winter

Emergency Departments (A&E)

Our emergency departments, often commonly known as “A&E, are for life-threatening situations only. Always call 999 or visit A&E if it’s an emergency.

By using the alternatives listed below for non-emergency medical help, you are helping us to focus on those patients who need emergency care.

NHS 111

If you think you need medical help right now, NHS 111 online can tell you what to do next. This 24/7 service should be your first port of call when you have an urgent healthcare need and, while it will not give you a diagnosis, will direct you to the best place to get help for your symptoms.

Visit: https://111.nhs.uk

If you can’t get online, you can call 111 for free to speak to a fully trained advisor, 24 hours a day. If necessary, 111 advisors can connect callers to healthcare professionals such as a nurse, emergency dentist or a GP.

Pharmacies

Pharmacists can provide advice and treatment for minor illnesses like colds, earaches, sore throats, and UTIs. They may also prescribe medication for certain conditions listed below without a GP appointment.

Conditions they can offer prescription medicine for are:

Impetigo (aged one year and over)
Infected insect bites (aged one year and over)
Earache (aged one to 17 years)
Sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) (women aged 16 to 64 years)
Shingles (aged 18 years and over)

If you are not within these age ranges, a pharmacist can still offer advice and support with over the counter medicines, but you may need to see a GP for treatment.

GPs

For persistent symptoms, chronic conditions, or new prescriptions, contact your GP. Appointments may be in person or by phone, with extended hours and weekend availability.

Mental health support

For urgent mental health concerns in South West London, call 111 and select the mental health option. Surrey residents can access 24-hour support via 0800 915 4644.

For non-urgent mental health concerns, contact your GP or visit the NHS website for support.

Vaccinations

Protect yourself with flu, Covid, and RSV vaccines. For many – particularly those with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women – these conditions can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

Check your eligibility and book at NHS Winter Vaccinations.

Stay Safe and Well This Winter

Wash hands regularly to prevent bugs like norovirus. Stay home for 48 hours after symptoms stop and disinfect surfaces.
Keep warm to reduce the risk of colds, flu, and serious health issues. Heat your home to at least 18°C in key rooms.
Plan ahead by collecting prescriptions before bank holidays.

Supporting Others

Check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours – especially older adults, young children, and those with long-term conditions. Ensure they have food, medication, and warm clothing.

If they do need to go out in the cold, encourage them to wear shoes with a good grip and a scarf around the mouth to protect them from cold air, and to reduce their risk of chest infections.

More resources

Visit the NHS website for advice on managing your health and finding local healthcare services.