NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do. It is free, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111. Use it when our surgery is closed, or when you need help fast but it is not a 999 emergency.
When to use NHS 111
- You need medical help fast, but it is not life-threatening
- You think you may need A&E or another urgent service, but you are not sure
- You do not know who to call, or you need health advice outside our opening hours
How NHS 111 works
You answer questions about your symptoms, online or with a trained adviser on the phone. Depending on your situation, NHS 111 can:
- give you self-care advice
- tell you which local service to go to, such as a pharmacy, urgent treatment centre or A&E
- arrange for a nurse, doctor or paramedic to call you back
- book you an appointment or arrival time at a local service, if needed
NHS 111 online or phone?
NHS 111 online is for people aged 5 and over. Call 111 if you need help for a child under 5, or if you prefer to speak to someone.
If you are deaf or have hearing loss, you can use the NHS 111 British Sign Language (BSL) service or Relay UK (dial 18001 111).
Mental health
If you or someone you know needs urgent mental health help, call 111 and choose the mental health option.
When to call 999
Call 999 in a medical or mental health emergency – when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.
Three numbers to remember
- Strayside Health: 01423 566 574 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
- NHS 111: urgent help when you are not sure what to do
- 999: life-threatening emergencies