GPs in Sefton are encouraging residents to contact NHS 111 first if they need urgent medical advice and support over the May bank holiday weekend (29-31 May).

People who need urgent health care across Sefton are being asked to contact NHS 111, which is staffed by trained professionals and clinicians, who will direct people to the most appropriate health service.

Use NHS 111 either online by visiting www.111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 if you do not have access to the internet. It is fast and simple and the easiest way to be sign posted to the right service that you or a loved one needs. This could be a local pharmacy, GP or a walk-in centre. In an emergency, you should call 999.

Dr Rob Caudwell, GP and chair of NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “NHS 111 is there any time to advise you how to safely manage your condition at home, or direct you to the right health service for your needs, which may include a local walk-in centre, GP, pharmacy or hospital.

“If you are assessed as needing to attend a hospital, you will get a timed appointment at a hospital emergency department. Remember, in a life-threatening medical emergency such as loss of consciousness, stroke or serious injury, you should always call 999 straight away.”

Dr Craig Blakey, GP and urgent care lead for NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “The NHS is coming under immense pressure as restrictions are eased and residents need to access health care.

“We are still here for you and 111 is vital in ensuring that you are guided to the right service you need whilst helping to ease pressure on our vital health services.“

You can use NHS 111 either by visiting the website 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111.

You can also find trusted advice about hundreds of health conditions on NHS.uk and the NHS app which provides secure access to a range of NHS services.

For anyone experiencing life-threatening illnesses or injuries like stroke, heart attack or loss of consciousness, continue to dial 999 right away.

For detailed information on health services including pharmacy times over the weekend please click here.

You can also check @NHSSSCCG or @NHSSFCCG on Twitter, or ring NHS 111.