With the late August bank holiday approaching, health professionals are reminding patients and the public to plan ahead with a ‘five-step check’ to stay well.

On Monday 30 August 2021, GP practices and some pharmacies will be closed or operating reduced hours, however a range of healthcare options remain available.

Dr Richard Mendelsohn, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “On a bank holiday, we know that people would much rather be spending their free time with family and friends, rather than worrying about whether they have the medication they need or where to get care and treatment.

“We have compiled a simple five-step check to help residents in Birmingham and Solihull to plan ahead and stay well over the bank holiday weekend.

“Please think ahead and know that the right medical care will be available.

“And as we look forward to the long weekend, we need to be mindful that COVID-19 hasn’t gone away and the best way to protect yourself and the people you care about is to get both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“There will be walk-in vaccination clinics open on 30 August.

“But, there’s also no time like the present for you to get your jab, and we have walk-in vaccination clinics, where no appointment is needed, open throughout the week.”

NHS Birmingham and Solihull CCG recommends:

1. Collect prescriptions: If you have a repeat prescription, make sure you have enough medication to last the long weekend. If you are in short supply, there is still time to speak to your GP practice or pharmacy, pick up a prescription and avoid any last-minute panics.
2. Prepare for self-care: You can look after many minor illnesses and injuries with over-the-counter medicines and supplies from your pharmacist or supermarket. Check that you have basics such as paracetamol and antihistamine at home, plus a first-aid kit. A helpful guide to what you should have at home is available on the NHS website.
3. Know the location of your nearest emergency pharmacist: Emergency pharmacists will be available over the bank holiday weekend, providing advice and over-the-counter medication for minor health concerns. A list of pharmacy bank holiday opening times is available here.
4. Contact NHS 111 for urgent care: If you need urgent medical help, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk. The friendly team at 111 are available 24 hours a day, including bank holidays, and they will help you right away, providing you with the right care for your needs, including booking you an appointment with an out-of-hours GP.
5. Emergency services are for emergencies only: For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 or go to A&E. But, remember that if you arrive with a non-emergency condition, you are likely to be directed to a more appropriate service.

Details of walk-in vaccination clinic opening hours and locations are available here.

ENDS