Man in armchair looking unwell, in an Urgent Treatment Centre waiting room. From national NHS 111 campaign.
This winter the NHS is encouraging you to get to the help you need, by using NHS 111.
It’s an easy, convenient way to get urgent help for a wide range of health problems from the comfort of your own home.
Did you know these three ways NHS 111 can support you?
1. Advice and symptom checking any time
NHS 111 can assess you and direct you to the most appropriate local service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including urgent treatment centres, walk in centres, GP practices, or a pharmacist.
You can also find out how to get support in your area, with Your Local Health Team Get the care you need | NCL ICS
Using NHS 111 could save you a trip to A&E. It is estimated that up to 40 percent of A&E attendances are avoidable or could be better treated elsewhere.
NHS 111 will ask you a series of questions about symptoms. If needed, they can arrange a call back from a nurse, doctor or paramedic.
You should still call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency – when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.
2. Support in a mental health crisis
The festive season can be a difficult time for many people.
If you’re in a mental health crisis, anyone, including children or concerned family members, can call 111 and select the mental health option.
They’ll put you in touch with a mental health professional in your area for support with urgent mental health issues.
For more about local mental health support, visit Getting help in a mental health crisis | NCL ICS
3. Advice on urgent dental care
Did you know NHS 111 can advise you on urgent dental care? If you’re worried about a dental symptom, visit 111.nhs.uk, answer some questions and they will tell you what to do next.
Have you seen this national TV advert about NHS 111?
How do I contact NHS 111?
The NHS 111 service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To contact them:
- Go online at 111.nhs.uk
- Call 111
- Access 111 with your NHS App
- If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, visit: NHS 111 – SignVideo
NHS 111 is for all ages, including children, young people and those with neurodevelopmental needs. You can contact them for yourself, or for someone else.
How do I find more support locally?
Here’s where you can find local support in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington.
- Pharmacies, out of hours support and Urgent Treatment centres Help with an urgent health need – NCL ICS
- Local mental health support – Getting help in a mental health crisis | NCL ICS
- Hear from staff – Local care coordinator Ellie talks about NHS 111 | NCL ICS
- More about Your Local Health Team – Get the care you need | NCL ICS