With local healthcare providers continuing to see huge demand, parents are being reminded of the support that is available to them should their children become ill over the half term break.

Choosing the right care or being prepared for minor illnesses can save time or can help you get back to normal more quickly.

Use 111 online or call 111

If you think you need medical help, 111 can tell you what to do next.

If face-to-face support is needed, an appointment may be booked at a local minor injuries unit (MIU) or urgent treatment centre (UTC).

While you can simply turn up at an MIU or UTC, you may be offered an appointment later that day (or the next) or signposted elsewhere, depending on your needs.

Make use of NHS advice online and digital tools

Digital is part of our everyday, even more so since the COVID-19 pandemic; from ordering our shopping, to checking our bank account, to helping us manage our health and wellbeing.

There are many apps and services that can get you the help you need. Find out more at www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/digital.

Think self-care

Pharmacies can help with allergies, constipation, headaches, earaches and many other ailments – find a pharmacy near you at nhs.uk.

Check the latest weather forecast and dress appropriately.

Stay hydrated – make sure you take on fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Babies and children are more at risk of dehydration than adults so make sure you keep an eye on them.

Mental health support is available

If you or your children 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/

For more information on local care and support visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk.

For information on healthcare for young people visit what0-18.nhs.uk