Tens of thousands more people in the North West are using the NHS 111 service as winter approaches, amid an early flu peak and colder temperatures.

Data from North West Ambulance Service shows 182,022 calls were made to the service in October – more than 31,000 additional calls compared to October last year.

NHS 111 – which is available online at 111.nhs.uk or via the NHS App, as well as by phone, can assess and direct people to the most appropriate local health service, including urgent treatment centres, GP practices, and consultations with a pharmacist. If needed it can arrange a call back from a nurse, doctor or paramedic or provide self-treatment advice over the phone. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People who urgent help for mental health can call 111 and select the mental health option.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said: “These figures show how demand is not only rising as we head towards winter, but is also increasing year on year, and this reflects what we’re seeing more widely across NHS services including A&E and ambulance.

“NHS 111 provides a vital service and is a trusted source of medical help and advice, which people can access from the comfort of their own home.

“Many people find it is the quickest way to get medical advice and be directed to the right service for their needs and it’s a great first port of call for people if they have an urgent, but non-emergency health need.”

Dan Ainsworth, Director of Operations at North West Ambulance Service, which provides the NHS 111 service in the region, said:
“If you need health advice this winter, our NHS 111 health advisors are here to help. For quick and convenient support, we also recommend using NHS 111 online through the NHS App.

“You’ll find trusted information to help you manage minor illnesses and injuries at home, whether it’s coughs, colds, sprains or grazes. It’s fast and easy to use and will guide you to the right care based on your symptoms, which may include a call back from a clinician.

“As temperatures drop, please take extra care when out and about. Icy paths and wet conditions can lead to slips and falls. Wrap up warm, check on vulnerable friends and family, and make sure you’re prepared for the winter weather.”

In addition to telephone and online support, the NHS 111 service also offers assistance in British Sign Language (BSL), making it more accessible for the deaf community. The BSL 111 service is available online via video link, offering a convenient and vital service to those who need it most.

When to use NHS 111:

• If you’re unsure where to go for treatment
• For non-emergency medical advice
• If you have a mental health concern
• If your GP or pharmacy is closed
• When you need urgent care but it’s not life-threatening

Also, if you or someone else is experiencing a mental health crisis you can call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for 24-hour urgent mental health advice and support

How to access NHS 111

• Call 111 for free from any phone
• Visit 111.nhs.uk for online support
• Use the BSL NHS 111 service at signvideo.co.uk/nhs111

For more information, visit 111.nhs.uk.