With the August bank holiday fast approaching, people in Cheshire and Merseyside are being reminded to plan ahead by ordering any repeat prescriptions they may need and knowing what to do if they, or a family member becomes unwell.

The NHS is advising that repeat prescriptions should be ordered seven days ahead of the bank holiday to allow enough time for prescriptions to be processed and for any potential issues to be addressed before the holidays.

Using the NHS App is the quickest and easiest way to order repeat prescriptions at a time that is convenient to you, and it puts you in greater control of your own health. You can also use it to choose which pharmacy you’d like your medication to be sent to, and to track the progress of your order.

If you require medical advice or assistance but it’s not an emergency, you can use the NHS 111 service by visiting 111.nhs.uk or call 111 to speak to a trained healthcare professional who will guide you on the best course of action.

You can use a local pharmacy and ask for advice – but do remember to call ahead to check their bank holiday opening hours. Search for your nearest pharmacy and opening times at: www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy.

Please call 999 or go straight to our Emergency Departments when someone is seriously ill or injured, and you think their life may be at risk.