We try to keep our GP appointments for patients with more serious health problems.
Before you book an appointment to see a doctor please consider whether an appointment with a practice nurse might be appropriate. They can help you with a wide range of medical problems.
Our receptionists can help you decide which is the right person for you to see.
If you are experiencing severe chest pain, collapse, severe breathing difficulties, have one sided weakness or slurred speech or severe bleeding, please dial 999 immediately.
For minor conditions your local pharmacy offers free help and advice without the need for an appointment. You might also be able to get medication free of charge under the Common Ailments Scheme. If needed, they will direct you to your GP. Please click on the link below to see what ailments this service will advise and treat you free of charge with
Self care
If you have a cough, cold, headache or other minor ailment try treating yourself at home first. Find out more about treatments for common minor ailments.
Please remember that self-care for common conditions can help free up our GPs’ time, making it easier to get an appointment when you have a more serious condition.
Your pharmacist can help too
Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals and can give you confidential health advice for a range of common illnesses and complaints.
Don’t wait for a GP appointment for coughs, colds, aches and pains. Just call your local pharmacy a call or drop in – there’s no need to make an appointment.
For minor conditions your local pharmacy offers free help and advice without the need for an appointment. You might also be able to get medication free of charge under the Common Ailments Scheme. If needed, they will direct you to your GP. Please click on the link below to see what ailments this service will advise and treat you free of charge with
Your pharmacists can also help you decide if you need to see a doctor or nurse.
NHS 111
111 is the free NHS non-emergency number.
You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation.
Call 111 if:
- you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
- you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service
- you don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call
- you need health information or reassurance about what to do next
Click here for more information about how NHS 111 can help you.
A&E
A&E is for life-threatening accidents and emergencies only. Before you go there, ask yourself, “Is it a real emergency?”
If not, please consider using other local health services before you visit A&E.