NHS 111 is the free number to call when you have an urgent healthcare need. It directs you to the right local service, first time.
It is available across the whole of England making it easier for you to access urgent healthcare services when you need medical help fast.
It is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones
What to do when your GP Practice is closed:
- If you need medical help fast but it’s not an emergency call 111
- If its a life-threatening emergency call 999
When should you call it?
- You need medical help fast, but it’s not a 999 emergency
- You don’t know who to call for medical help or you don’t have a GP to call
- You think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service but are not sure which one is most appropriate; or
- You require health advice or reassurance about what to do next
How does it work?
- When you call 111 you will be assessed by fully trained advisers who are supported by experienced nurses and paramedics. They will ask you questions to assess your symptoms and give you the healthcare advice you need or direct you straightaway to the local service that can help you best.
- If the NHS 111 team think you need an ambulance, they will send one immediately.
For more information on emergency and urgent care services visit NHS Choices.