As resident doctor strikes come to an end and with Christmas Day just around the corner, people across the North West are being urged to use services wisely including NHS 111 as the first port of call for urgent health advice.

Strike action by resident doctors ended at 7am this morning but NHS services across the region remain incredibly stretched with seasonal pressures and flu cases, during what is traditionally the busiest time of the year for the NHS.

During this time, our staff are continuing to work incredibly hard to ensure as many patients as possible are being treated in good time and we will be prioritising patients with the greatest clinical needs.

People can play their part by continuing to come forward for care and using the right service for their needs. If it’s not an emergency, but you need urgent advice and treatment or you’re unsure where to go, NHS 111 online, which can be accessed at 111.nhs.uk or via the NHS App, can help.

People can also help support work to get patients who are medically fit home for Christmas, by being ready to collect friends or family members from hospital promptly, making sure they have a stocked fridge and medicine cabinet, checking their home is safe from trip hazards and is warm.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said: “I’d like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to every member of NHS staff who has worked exceptionally hard to maintain as much care as possible for patients during strike action and will continue to do so over the festive period. And thank you to the public for their continued support during this busy time.

“As we approach Christmas and New Year bank holidays, I’d urge anyone needing care to please come forward without delay – the NHS is here for you.

“Please continue to use the NHS wisely and if you’re unsure which service is best for your needs, use NHS 111 online where you can check your symptoms and be directed to the right place.”

Highly trained advisors at NHS 111 will assess and direct people to the most appropriate local service, including hospital urgent treatment centres, GP practices, and consultations with a pharmacist. If needed, staff can also arrange a call back from a nurse, doctor, or paramedic. 111 can also offer crisis mental health support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

People can use general practice, dental and pharmacy services as usual on normal working days around the festive season. GP practices will be closed during the Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day bank holidays and people should use NHS 111 for health advice instead.

Community pharmacies can provide advice and treatment for a range of minor conditions and may be operating reduced opening hours during the festive period. People are advised to check opening times on the NHS website.

During the festive period, when people gather with friends and family inside, viruses such as flu and COVID are more likely to spread.

Dr Gregory continued: “Nobody wants to miss festive celebrations because they’re unwell or pass any illnesses on to their loved ones. People can help prevent viruses from spreading by washing their hands regularly and staying away from others if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms.”