Local NHS urges people in Bradford district to prepare for May bank holidays

News - 24 April 2023

People are being asked to check their medication supplies and to visit NHS 111 online first for health advice over what is expected to be a busy period for NHS services during the first of three May bank holidays (May 1) and nurse strike action (April 30 – May 2).
A parent is sat on a sofa with an ill child. The parent is using a tablet. The sofa is placed in the middle of a pharmacy. The headline text reads: "Get to the help you need" The help us help you logo features in the bottom right of the image. The NHS logo features in the top right of the image.

The call comes from Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership - made up of local NHS organisations, local councils, independent care organisations and the voluntary and community sector – which serves a population of about 650,000 people.

The nurse strike action will impact NHS services across the district during the 48-hour walkout. Royal College of Nursing members at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will be taking part in the industrial action.

'Strike will mean longer waits in A&E'

Helen Farmer, Director for Access to Care at Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, said: “As the first May bank holiday approaches, we’re asking everyone in the area to ensure they’re prepared for their medical needs.

“We want you to stay happy, healthy at home and by using services such as NHS 111 online – as well as getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, keeping active, and having a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home – help avoid a visit to your local A&E.

"The nurses’ strike at Bradford will have a significant impact on local NHS services and mean that your wait time in A&E will be much longer than usual if you do not have a life or limb-threatening emergency. It will be quicker visiting www.111.nhs.uk, calling 111 or contacting your local GP or pharmacist.

“Remember to order in advance any repeat prescriptions you may need to last over the bank holidays via your GP practice or using the NHS App that also allows you to change your nominated pharmacy. Some pharmacies may also be open on the bank holiday so check online to find the closest one to you.”

Find a pharmacy open near you

Health advice and information is available from NHS 111, which is free and can be accessed by phone or online. It can tell you where and how to get help for your symptoms and arrange a telephone call with a healthcare professional if appropriate. You can also use the NHS website to find an open pharmacy near you.

People are being encouraged to have a small stock of basic medicines in case needed for minor illnesses or injuries and are advised to ask local pharmacists for advice on what medicines to keep at home.

Emotional support is also available over this period through Guide-Line between 8am and 12am on 08001 884 884 or the Healthy Minds website to get help. For 24/7 urgent mental health crisis support, people should contact First Response on 08009521181.

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