NORTH Somerset residents are being urged to plan ahead with their health needs prior to the bank holiday weekend (May 27 - 29).

During that time, many GP's will be closed and pharmacies will be operating on reduced hours.

Dr Joanne Medhurst, chief medical officer for NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, said: “We’re reminding people to check their repeat prescriptions and order more ahead of the bank holiday if they need to. It can be done easily online or via the NHS App without needing to visit a GP practice.

“Now that the weather is improving and we’re spending more time outside, it’s also important to take some quick steps to stay well. By wearing sunscreen, avoiding tick bites and ensuring you have antihistamines for hay fever, you’re putting yourself in the best position to enjoy spending time outdoors.

“Bank holidays are normally a busy time for health and care services. Local people can play their part to support services by only using 999 and A&E for genuine life-threatening emergencies and using NHS 111 online or by phone for other urgent care needs or if you’re unsure about whether you should go to hospital.”

There are many ways that you can help take the pressure off the NHS this bank holiday. Here are a few:

  • Making sure you have enough prescribed medicines.
  • Ensuring that you have a fully stocked first aid kit at home, just in case.
  • Checking for ticks, especially after walks in the countryside.
  • Wearing sunscreen.
  • Taking precautions to ease symptoms of hay fever.

The NHS app also comes in handy with getting general information and health advice.

A list of pharmacies and their opening times over the bank holiday weekend can be found on the ICB website.

There will be urgent care services running throughout the weekend, such as the Urgent Treatment Centre at South Bristol Community Hospital and the Minor Injury Unit in Yate, which will both be open from 8am to 8pm each day, while the Minor Injury Unit at the hospital in Clevedon will be open from 8am to 8.30pm.

Call 999 or go to your local A&E in life-threatening situations.