As the capital gets ready for the early May long weekend, Londoners are being asked to add a few health-related tasks to their bank holiday preparation lists.

NHS England in London wants people to collect repeat prescriptions so no-one runs out of medication.  It’s also a good idea to ensure medicine cabinets are well-stocked to deal with minor ailments like stomach upsets and coughs.

Dr Mark Spencer, Deputy Medical Director of NHS England (London) said: “While we hope everyone remains fit and healthy over the bank holiday break, there are a few things Londoners can do now to help ensure a great weekend without any worries. Collect your repeat prescriptions and stock up your medicine cabinet.

“If you do fall ill we advise you to seek help early, and be assured that we have been working with services across the capital so that everyone can access the most appropriate care over the long weekend.”

NHS England is reminding Londoners where they can go if they are unwell. Not every GP surgery will be open on the bank holidays, but patients can get advice at pharmacies, through their GP out of hours service, walk-in clinics and urgent care centres.

To get information about those services, ring your GP surgery or check your local CCG website.  A full list of pharmacies that are open over the weekend is available.

Ring NHS111 if you urgently need medical help or advice, but it’s not a life-threatening situation. The service is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses and paramedics and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In an emergency, Londoners should dial 999 or go to A&E.