News and media releases from the Surrey Heartlands area
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Parents urged to choose the right NHS service over the half-term break
As families across Surrey prepare for the half-term holidays, the NHS is reminding parents and carers to choose the right service if a child becomes unwell or injured, helping everyone get the right care quickly while keeping emergency departments free for the most serious cases.
With children off school and families spending more time together, it’s common to see an increase in minor illnesses and injuries. NHS services across Surrey Heartlands are ready to help, but using the right service can make a big difference for you and for others who need urgent care.
Dr Charlotte Canniff, Joint Chief Medical Officer at NHS Surrey Heartlands, said:
We know that half term is a busy time for families, and accidents and illnesses can happen at any time.
The NHS is here to help, but we’re asking parents to think carefully before heading straight to A&E.
Many common childhood illnesses can be treated safely at home or with advice from a pharmacist or NHS 111.
This helps our emergency teams focus on the most seriously ill patients.
By using the appropriate NHS service, you can get the help you need faster and help us make sure emergency care is available for those who really need it.
Here’s how to get the right care quickly this half term:
- Self-care at home: most minor coughs, colds, sore throats, and mild fevers get better with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines.
- Pharmacies: your local pharmacist can give expert advice on common childhood illnesses, rashes, and minor injuries - no appointment needed. The Pharmacy First scheme also allows people to receive expert advice and NHS-funded treatment for common conditions without a GP appointment. Conditions include ear infections, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis and sore throats.
- NHS 111: if you’re unsure what to do, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for help 24/7. They can direct you to the right service and even book appointments where available.
- GP practices: contact your practice online or by phone for help with persistent symptoms, chronic pain, long term conditions, lumps and bump and more.
- Urgent treatment centres / minor injury units: these can help with sprains, cuts, minor burns, and other non-life-threatening issues.
- Emergency departments (A&E) and 999: for life-threatening emergencies such as severe breathing difficulties, heavy bleeding, or loss of consciousness, always call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
More information on the healthcare services available to you