For minor ailments use your local pharmacy

Pharmacies offer a lot more than just a place to collect a prescription – they can advise you on how to treat a variety of minor illnesses or conditions. What’s more most pharmacies in Dorset have private consultation rooms so you can speak with them in confidence if you need to.

No matter where you are, you can search for your nearest pharmacy on www.nhs.uk.

If you receive repeat prescriptions, please make sure you order them in time, so you don’t run out and only order what you need.

For more information visit nhsdorset.nhs.uk/yourmeds.

If you need support with your mental health, help is available

If you are experiencing something that makes you feel unsafe, distressed, or worried about your mental health, you can now contact your local crisis service in Dorset by calling NHS 111 and selecting the mental health option.

You can call for yourself, or someone else. NHS 111 is for all ages, including children and young people and those with neurodevelopmental needs.

If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, please use the following link to be connected to local crisis service

https://signvideo.co.uk/nhs111/.

If you aren’t able to make the call yourself, then anyone can call on your behalf – for example a friend, carer, loved one or even your GP. You can also access NHS 111 online via 111.nhs.uk.

Dorset’s Connection helpline is open 24/7 for mental health support, advice and signposting for anyone across the county. Direct dial 0800 652 0190 or call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Find out about community-based support at ourdorset.org.uk/accesswellbeing.

Think 111 if you need urgent care or advice

If you need urgent care or advice, use 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

If appropriate, the advisor will be able to direct you to the best place to suit your needs. This may be a Minor Injuries Unit or Urgent Treatment Centre.

111 is free to call at all times.

In an emergency call 999 and ask for an ambulance

Only call 999 when someone is seriously injured or ill and their life may be at risk. For example, if someone is unconscious, not breathing or is bleeding heavily.

If you’re waiting for an ambulance, please don’t call 999 back — unless the patient’s condition has deteriorated or you no longer need an ambulance — to ask when one will arrive, these details can’t be provided, as ambulances are sent to patients with the most life-threatening conditions first.

For more information on the full range of health services and how to access them visit https://staywelldorset.nhs.uk/.

If you are concerned you or your child may have come into contact with someone who has measles, or if you or they are displaying symptoms get help from NHS 111.