With another Bank Holiday weekend approaching, did you know that you can quickly get health advice and over-the-counter medicines from your local pharmacy?

Many pharmacies are open during weekends and Bank Holidays, and can be a great place to get quick, confidential advice on a range of common illnesses, such as hay fever and other allergies.

The following pharmacies in Birmingham and Solihull are open during the two Bank Holiday Mondays in May. You can also access this information NHS Choices.

*information correct at time of issue.

Many common minor illnesses and injuries can be treated at home, so make sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet. However, if you are unsure of where to go for medical advice or help, call NHS 111, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Dr Richard Mendelsohn, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It’s very important that people choose the right service over the May Bank Holidays. There are many conditions that can be easily treated at home or with advice from your local pharmacist.

“For healthcare needs that are not urgent, we would ask people to call the NHS 111 service and speak to a trained advisor. It’s a free telephone number and you will be directed to the right local service.”

If your illness cannot wait until your GP surgery reopens, you can also call your practice to be directed to its out-of-hours service or alternatively visit a local walk-in centre.