NHS 111

NHS 111 is an easy way to get help and advice, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, either on the NHS 111 website or by phoning 111.

If you have an urgent health problem, please go straight to NHS 111.

NHS 111 advisors will ask you a series of questions, before directing you to a local NHS service, this could be connecting you to a nurse, emergency dentist, pharmacist or GP.

Self-care

Minor injuries such as cuts, grazes, bruises, a sprain, a cough or a cold can often be managed at home in the first instance.

It’s worth keeping medicines and treatments at home for when you might need them such as painkillers, cough and cold remedies, decongestants, indigestion tablets and a first aid kit.

If you are ever unwell and not sure what to do, visit 111.nhs.uk, phone 111 or speak to a pharmacist.

Pharmacies 

Your local pharmacy is also a great option in the first instance.

Many are open late or at weekends.

Many pharmacies can now prescribe medication for certain conditions without the need for a GP appointment. Find out more on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/

Find your nearest pharmacy on the NHS website.

Your GP

Your local GP service is the best option for long-term conditions. 

Minor Injuries Units

There are minor injury units in Cirencester, Chippenham and Trowbridge which are open weekdays and weekends for non-life-threatening injuries.
They might be a slightly longer drive, but provide high quality treatment and expert care for minor injuries.
They are also likely to have shorter wait times than our urgent and emergency care service.
Before visiting a minor injury unit, please contact them to check that this is the right service for you.

Urgent and Emergency Care 

In an emergency or if you think someone's life may be at risk, do not hesitate to phone 999 or visit the Emergency Department at the Great Western Hospital.

The Emergency Department is accessed through the Urgent Treatment Centre. 

All walk-in patients (those who do not arrive on an ambulance) must enter the building through the Urgent Treatment Centre entrance, where they will be assessed and directed to the best place for treatment.

The Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) is based at the Great Western Hospital and provides care for urgent health conditions.