6 days ago
UK Summer Bank Holiday in August: NHS offers emergency health advice to cover everything from dental care to mental health for a smooth holiday
Synopsis
National Health Service Greater Manchester advises citizens to prepare for the upcoming summer bank holiday. They suggest planning for healthcare needs. This includes prescriptions and minor ailments. Local pharmacies can help with several conditions. Dental and eye care services are available. Mental health support is accessible 24/7. Planning ensures a smooth and healthy holiday for everyone in Greater Manchester.
Getty Images UK Summer Bank Holiday in August: NHS offers emergency health advice to cover everything from dental care to mental health for a smooth holiday. As the summer bank holiday is coming up on August 25, 2025, the National Health Service (NHS) Greater Manchester has urged people to plan well ahead to ensure that the holiday fun does not get spoiled. From minor health conditions to mental health crisis support, the NHS has said that people should 'Get To Know Where To Go' if they find themselves in trouble during the summer bank holiday. In case of hot weather, the NHS has urged people to ensure that they take precautions and avoid heat exposure. When you are outside, try to ensure that you stay in the shade, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM; wear sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing; drink plenty of water; and avoid any exercise or activity that raises your body temperature.
The NHS has advised people to plan in case they take prescription medication. Every bank holiday, NHS 111 sees a huge spike in calls from people who have run out of prescription medicines because GP (General Practitioner) offices and pharmacies have different hours over the long if you take regular or repeat prescriptions, make sure you have enough medication to last through the holiday and order refills well in advance—being prepared saves you time and helps keep NHS 111 available for those who truly need urgent care.
People should contact their local pharmacies for minor health issues and questions. Thanks to the Pharmacy First program, pharmacists can now assess and treat seven additional conditions—like earache, sore throat, and urinary tract infections—without needing a GP visit or your issue isn't covered by Pharmacy First or existing pharmacy services (see How pharmacies can help), you may be advised to see your you need help with contraception, many pharmacies can start oral birth control and also provide refills for those already using it. Many pharmacies offer Emergency Contraception (the 'morning after pill'), sometimes for you have pain in your mouth, teeth, or gums, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline at 0333 332 3800. It's available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, including weekends and bank holidays, for urgent help when your dental practice is closed or if you don't have a regular dentist. A fee may apply.
Eye care Greater Manchester's Urgent Eye Care Service offers quick help if you suddenly experience vision changes, red or painful eyes, or new flashes or floaters. The service is available every day, including evenings and weekends. To find an optician in this service, visit Minor and Urgent Eyecare Services. This isn't a walk-in service, so always call ahead first.
Mental health issues
In case someone needs mental health crisis support, there are 24/7 helplines available for free that cover Greater Manchester. Just call NHS 111 and press 2 for the mental health Claire Lake, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said, 'We want everyone to enjoy their August bank holiday, which is why we encourage taking the time to plan for common minor health conditions to help you have a memorable bank holiday for all the right reasons,' as quoted by
