If you think you need to visit A&E, but it is not life-threatening, call NHS 24 on 111
The NHS24 telephone service is available – day and night – to direct you to the service you need, often closer to home and without the need to travel to A&E. This could include self-care, GP, pharmacy, minor injuries or a referral for clinical assessment.
If you still need to attend A&E following this assessment, you will be given a safe time for this to happen.
From 1 December 2020, you are asked to:
• use the NHS inform website to access advice on common symptoms, guidance for self-help and where to go if further medical care is needed
• contact your local GP practice during the day for an appointment or over the phone advice
• use the NHS 24 telephone service on 111 day or night if you think you need A&E but it is not life-threatening
• use the NHS 24 111 Mental Health Hub and Breathing Space telephone helpline to access mental health advice and guidance
• use NHS 24 111 service and NHS inform out of hours when you are too ill to wait for your GP Practice to open, or for worsening symptoms of COVID-19; and
• use NHS 24 telephone service 111 for non-life threatening but painful injuries, such as a deep cut, a broken or sprained ankle or a painful burn injury to get an appointment at your local minor injuries unit.
In emergencies, you should continue to call 999 or go directly to A&E.