The NHS in the South East is encouraging people to order their repeat prescription early if they are due ahead of the first of three May Bank Holidays to ensure they receive essential medication in time

The Coronation of King Charles III means there will be an additional Bank Holiday on Monday 8 May, along with the annual early and late May Bank Holiday on Monday 1 May and Monday 29 May.

NHS 111 phone service sees huge increases in people making contact about repeat prescriptions over holiday weekends

GP practices and pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the Bank Holiday, making it more challenging for patients to access medicines at short notice. Waiting and using emergency or urgent services over the break puts added pressure on already busy services.

NHS England South East’s Medical Director Vaughan Lewis has advised people get their repeat prescription as soon as possible.

He said: “Over the Bank Holiday weekends it may take longer than usual to process your repeat prescription, and have it dispensed. If you take medication regularly and are due a repeat prescription please get it in early to your GP or via the NHS app, 72 hours (3 days) in advance of needing it.

“This enables your practice and pharmacy to have your prescription ready in time for you.”

If people feel unwell over the bank holiday weekend, they can check their symptoms and get access to advice using 111.nhs.uk online. NHS 111 is a free service which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Pharmacy opening times in the South East can be found on our website: https://www.england.nhs.uk/south-east/our-work/pharmacy-opening-hours/