Where to get help

Choose the right service for what you need. If you are not sure, use NHS 111 online. It will ask about your symptoms and tell you where to go.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if someone:

  • has chest pain, or pain that spreads to the arms, back, neck or jaw
  • has signs of a stroke: face drooping on one side, cannot lift both arms, or difficulty speaking
  • is struggling to breathe, or is choking
  • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop
  • is unconscious, or having a seizure for the first time
  • has a severe allergic reaction, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue

Do not drive yourself to A&E.

Urgent advice: Get help from NHS 111 if:

  • you need help urgently, but it is not an emergency
  • you are not sure what to do or where to go
  • we are closed and you cannot wait until we open

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

For a mental health crisis, call 111 and choose option 2.

Other places to get help

These services can often see you sooner than a GP.

  • Pharmacy

    Minor illnesses and Pharmacy First. Pharmacists can treat sore throats, earache, sinusitis, shingles, impetigo, infected insect bites and UTIs in women, without a GP appointment.

  • Urgent Treatment Centre

    Sprains, cuts, minor burns and possible broken bones. Chard Hospital - You do not need an appointment.

  • Dentist

    Toothache or a dental problem. Contact your dentist. If you do not have one, call 111 for urgent dental care.

  • Optician

    Red, painful or sore eyes, or changes to your sight. Many opticians can see you urgently.

  • Sexual health clinic

    Contraception, STI tests and emergency contraception. Free and confidential. Many pharmacies also offer emergency contraception.

  • Mental health support

    Feeling low, anxious or stressed. You can refer yourself to talking therapies. In a crisis, call 111 and choose option 2.

  • Look after yourself at home

    Colds, coughs and minor aches. Many minor illnesses get better on their own with rest, fluids and advice from a pharmacist.

Non-urgent advice: Contact us if:

  • your problem is not urgent
  • you have a long-term condition or ongoing symptoms
  • you need a review, fit note or test results
Information:

Our online form is closed at the moment. It opens again today at 8am.

Questions about our online form

Read about a symptom or condition

The NHS website explains symptoms, conditions and treatments, and when to get help. Find it in the NHS Health A to Z.

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Page last reviewed: 13 November 2026