With Christmas approaching, NHS England South East is reminding people that the NHS is still here for them throughout the festive period — but to use services wisely to help ensure care is available for those who need it most. 

Pharmacies, GP practices, NHS 111 and urgent dental services will all continue to provide care over Christmas, alongside emergency departments and 999 for life‑threatening emergencies. 

Patients are being advised: 

• Pharmacy First: Local pharmacies can provide expert advice and treatment for common conditions such as coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections and urinary tract infections. Many pharmacies will remain open over the Christmas period — so don’t let a sniffle steal your sparkle. 

• GP practices: GP services will continue to operate, with some offering extended hours. Patients should contact their practice in the usual way for non‑urgent medical needs — helping keep care wrapped up neatly for everyone. 

• Urgent dental appointments: Patients with urgent dental problems can access care via NHS 111, which will direct them to available urgent dental care appointments — because toothache should never be part of your Christmas cracker. 

• NHS 111 online: For urgent but non‑life‑threatening issues, NHS 111 online should be the first port of call — think of it as your digital elf, guiding you to the right care. 

• Emergency care: Patients should only call 999 or attend A&E for life‑threatening emergencies 

Dr Tim Caroe, Director of Primary Care Transformation for the NHS in the South East, said: 

“Christmas is a time when minor illnesses like coughs, colds and stomach bugs often spread quickly, but help is closer than people think.  

“Pharmacists are highly trained clinicians who can offer expert advice and treatment for a wide range of conditions — often faster and more conveniently than waiting for a GP or visiting A&E. By choosing the right service, whether it’s Pharmacy First, NHS 111 online, or your GP, you’ll get the care you need while helping us keep hospitals free for those facing serious emergencies.”