Make the right choices to help yourself and the NHS this half term. 

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.

For life-threatening injuries or illnesses, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

Use 111 online or call 111

If you think you need medical help, calling 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk 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.

Where to find urgent care in Dorset:

  • Blandford Community Hospital

  • Bridport Community Hospital

  • Swanage Hospital

  • Victoria Hospital Wimborne

  • Westminster Memorial Hospital Shaftesbury

  • Yeatman Hospital Sherborne

  • Weymouth Community Hospital

Make use of NHS advice online and digital tools

For many people, digital is part of our everyday. 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.

You can also make GP appointments online via practice websites or even via the NHS app. This then frees up the phone lines for those who need to call.

Think Pharmacy First and self-care

For minor illnesses such as earache, sinus issues, tummy bugs or urine infections, visit your local pharmacy. Pharmacies can offer expert advice and supply medicines.

Many also provide Pharmacy First where pharmacists can provide prescription medicines for seven common conditions including sinusitis, sore throat, earache, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, uncomplicated UTIs in women) without a GP visit.

Pharmacy – Stay Well Dorset

Mental health support is available

Call Connection on 0800 652 0190 (open 24/7), or visit Mental health – Stay Well Dorset

Young people aged 11 to 25 can also use Kooth.com for free online support.

You can also call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time if you need someone to talk to.

If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is in danger, always call 999.

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 www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk.