We’re under pressure: please help us to help you

Published: 31 December 2024

Our services are under pressure. Please help us by not coming to our hospitals if you have a high temperature (37.5 degrees), flu-like symptoms, a persistent cough or diarrhoea and vomiting.

Most coughs, colds and diarrhoea and vomiting can be treated at home with paracetamol, drinking plenty of water and getting some rest. Most symptoms improve after three to five days, but please call your GP or NHS 111 if they do not improve or worsen.

Please continue to call 999 or visit our emergency department if you have a life-threatening condition, chest pain or trouble breathing.

Please use our minor injury units or urgent treatment centre if you need care for something which is not life-threatening. Details about opening times and how to book an appointment are on our Minor Injuries Units and Urgent Treatment Centre page.

If you are unwell but have a planned appointment in the next few days which you don’t think you will be well enough to attend, please can you call us as soon as you can to rearrange your appointment – this will allow us to book you a new appointment as quickly as we can when you’re fit and well and to give your appointment to someone else who is waiting. Thank you.

You can also help us by collecting your loved ones from hospital as soon as we call. People recover best in their own home and in familiar surroundings. You can help by making sure they have all the medication they need and have some essentials such food and milk, and keeping a check on them during the coming days and weeks.

Most GP surgeries are open today and on 2 January, please call your GP if you need help for something which is not life-threatening.

Details about local pharmacy opening times are available on NHS England’s South West – Pharmacies page.