As Christmas approaches, NHS Somerset is sharing top tips on how to stay healthy and happy over the festive season.
From ordering repeat prescriptions early and accessing mental health support to making the most of local services like NHS 111 and community pharmacies, there are many things that people in Somerset can do to help themselves – and friends and family – stay well.
Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Somerset said: “Winter is often a challenging time for the NHS, particularly over the festive season when services become busier and are more limited over the bank holiday periods. It’s important to know how you can get the help you need.
“The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App or GP Online Services – you can do this from the comfort of your own home. And do remember that community pharmacies can help you with many winter illnesses and can also provide prescription only medicine to treat seven common health conditions such as sinusitis, sore throats and earache.
“Mental health support is also crucial, especially during the festive season. We have face-to-face safe spaces and a 24-hour helpline available. You can also access help and advice via our Open Mental Health website. Remember, help is always at hand, and it’s important to reach out if you’re struggling.”
NHS Somerset put together a handy guide on its website to help you access services has to look after your health in Somerset over the festive season well guide all NHS services in the area: https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/my-health/winter-2024/
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Top tips on accessing care over the festive holidays
- Use the right service
- Order your repeat prescriptions early
If you rely on repeat medication, make sure to place your orders now to avoid running out over the holidays. The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App or GP Online Services – you can do this from the comfort of your own home. Before you order, check what medicines you already have and only order what you need. Please do not stockpile medicines as excess supplies can be dangerous and wasteful.
NHS 111
For non-emergencies, you can get medical advice 24/7 by calling NHS 111 or using the 111 online service. They have trained professionals who can direct you to the appropriate care.
While most GP surgeries will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, some pharmacies will remain open and are the best place to go for minor health concerns.
Community pharmacies
Your local pharmacy can offer clinical advice for common winter conditions such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles, and aches and pains. Check their opening hours via www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-Pharmacy.
Some pharmacies will be open over the bank holidays during the festive season for more information on which community pharmacies will be open over the bank holidays visit NHS England — South West » Pharmacy opening hours (this website will be updated nearer the bank holidays).
Pharmacy First is a service that allows community pharmacists to provide prescription-only medicines to treat seven common health conditions, without a visit to a GP, including sinusitis, sore throat, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
Domestic violence
Sadly, we know that cases of domestic violence increase over the festive season. This is not just physical but also emotional abuse. In an emergency, please call 999.
For support, contact Somerset Domestic Abuse Service at 0800 6949999. You can call 0800 6949999 (option 2) 8 am – 8 pm seven days a week.
The helpline will be open 9am-1pm Christmas day and bank holidays.
Urgent Treatment Centres and Minor Injury Units
You can attend your local Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) for urgent not life-threatening conditions and injuries such as sprains, fractures and burns. For the latest information on opening hours and services, visit the UTC/MIU pages.
Emergencies
If you need emergency care, please call 999 or use your nearest accident and emergency department. Do contact 111 first if you are unsure if you need to use A&E services.
Getting your loved ones home for Christmas
If your loved one is in hospital and well enough to leave, help support them to get home at the earliest opportunity.
Looking after children
There are apps you can download with advice to help you look after you child. Visit our apps page to download the apps.
Support with your mental health
People can struggle with their mental health over the festive season. Open Mental Health’s Festive Wellbeing Kit is packed with resources and support options from across Somerset, whether it’s family tensions, money worries, or the stress of holiday preparations.
Remember, Mindline Somerset is open any time of the day locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692. And with Crisis Safe Space appointments available, you never have to face mental health struggles alone.
Explore Open Mental Health’s Stay Well in 2025 Wellbeing page. It’s packed with resources and support options from across the OMH alliance. Whether you’re facing family tensions, money worries, or the stress of a new year, we’ve got you covered to help you stay well and make the most of 2025.
