Right care right place

The way we access urgent care has changed. To protect us and the NHS, it’s important you know how to get the right care, in the right place.

If we all use NHS services wisely, we can keep well and get the care we need quickly, safely and as close to home as possible.

Phone NHS 24 on 111 for urgent care

If you think you need to visit A&E but it’s not life threatening, you can phone NHS 24 on 111, day or night.

Phone 111 if you:

think you need to go to A&E but it’s not life threatening
are too ill to wait for your GP practice to open
have worsening symptoms of coronavirus

NHS 24 will help you get the right care in the right place, often closer to home and without the need to go to A&E. This may include a phone or video consultation.

Or, you can still contact your GP practice during opening hours.

If it’s a life threatening emergency, you should phone 999 or go directly to A&E.

Different ways to access NHS 24 on 111

You can access urgent care from NHS 24 on 111 in different ways.

Language Line

If English isn’t your first or preferred language, you can use the free Language Line interpretation service here.

British Sign Language (BSL)

If you use British Sign Language (BSL), you can use the free BSL interpreting video relay service here.

You can find more information about Right care right place in BSL here.

Relay UK

If you use a textphone you can contact NHS 24 on 18001 111.

Or, you can contact NHS 24 with the Relay UK app here.

Minor Injuries Unit (MIU)

If you think you need to visit a MIU, you should call NHS 24 on 111. NHS 24 will direct you to the best care for your needs. A MIU can help if you:

have a cut
have a minor burn
have a sprain or strain
think you have broken or fractured a bone

Visiting a MIU can often be quicker than going to A&E.

Find your local MIU

NHS inform

We provide accurate and reliable health information to help you make informed decisions.

We have advice on common symptoms, a range of self-help guides and information on where to go if you need further medical care.

You can access our information on topics such as:

Community health care services

Community health care services include pharmacies, GP practices, dentists and optometrists (opticians).

speak to your local pharmacy for advice about minor illnesses, treatments and medications
contact your local optician if you have an eye problem
use our self-help guides for everyday illnesses
contact your GP practice, optician or dentist by phone or online first
follow physical distancing measures if you’re attending in person

Don’t

do not visit your GP practice, optician or dentist without an appointment
do not visit your GP practice, optician or dentist without an appointment
do not arrive too early or too late for your appointment
do not attend in person if you, or someone you live with, has symptoms of coronavirus

Read further information about changes to community health care services

Mental health support

For mental health and emotional wellbeing support please visit here.

For urgent mental health support, phone NHS 24 on 111, day or night.