The NHS in Gloucestershire is today urging people to plan in advance and take some simple steps that should help them keep healthy over the Easter break:

  • If you are ill or injured and are not sure where to turn, visit asapglos.nhs.uk, download the ASAP Glos NHS App free from your App store, call NHS111 or visit the pharmacy for advice
  • Be prepared – make sure you get any prescriptions and medicines you might need before the holiday season starts
  • Don’t forget to order your regular prescriptions in advance and make sure you collect enough medication to last throughout the Easter period
  • Remember to take your prescribed medication with you if you are visiting family or friends
  • If you do run your of your normal prescribed medicines, most community pharmacies can help if you need an urgent prescription
  • Keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home, with medicines such as paracetamol which can treat a number of everyday illnesses
  • Take early action – seek advice from your local pharmacy if you have a long term health condition and are starting to feel unwell before it gets more serious. Further advice can be found at: nhs.uk/staywell.
  • Find Easter pharmacy opening hours at: www.gloucestershireccg.nhs.uk/your-services/pharmacists/
  • Use Emergency Services wisely – call 999 only when it’s a serious injury or a life threatening situation such as unconsciousness, heavy loss of blood, severe chest pain or stroke

GP and Quality Lead with the CCG, Dr Charles Buckley, said:

“The key thing to remember before the Easter break is to plan in advance and ensure you and your family are well prepared for all eventualities.

By following the simple steps published here, you will get the long weekend off to a good start and know where to look for advice should the need arise.

If you are ill or injured and are not sure where to turn, visit www.asapglos.nhs.uk, download the ASAP Glos NHS App free from your App store, call NHS111 or visit the pharmacy for advice.

To find your nearest pharmacist, including details of opening hours over the Easter period visit www.gloucestershireccg.nhs.uk or www.asapglos.nhs.uk.