Local NHS services are expected to be extremely busy over the Easter bank holiday weekend, with additional pressure caused by planned industrial action by resident doctors from 7am Tuesday 7 April to 7am Monday 13 April.
Our practice will remain open as usual during this period, but patients may experience longer waits or reduced availability in some services.
š„ How this may affect you
- Appointments: Please attend your booked appointment unless we contact you to rearrange.
- Urgent care: A&E departments will be very busy. Please use them only for lifeāthreatening emergencies.
- Minor Injuries Units: South Bristol, Clevedon and Yate MIUs are open for sprains, minor fractures, cuts and similar injuries.
- Pharmacies: Local pharmacists can offer advice and treatment for many common conditions.
š” Using the right service helps everyone
To help keep emergency services available for those who need them most:
- Use NHS 111 online for nonāemergency advice.
- Consider selfācare for minor illnesses.
- Visit your local pharmacy for quick support.
- Contact the practice for ongoing or persistent health concerns.
š§° Prepare ahead for the long weekend
A little planning can reduce stress and avoid unnecessary trips:
- Check you have enough regular medication to last through the bank holiday.
- Keep basic medicines at home (pain relief, cold/flu remedies, antihistamines, firstāaid items).
- Make sure your repeat prescriptions are ordered in good time.
š· Help reduce the spread of illness
Respiratory infections are circulating locally. You can help protect yourself and others by:
- Washing hands regularly
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Letting fresh air into indoor spaces
- Staying home if youāre unwell
- Taking up vaccinations when invited