NHS 111

NHS 111 is an easy way to get the right help, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, either on the NHS 111 website or over the phone.

If you have an urgent health problem, please go straight to NHS 111.

NHS 111 advisors will ask you a series of questions, before directing you to a local NHS service, this could be connecting you to a nurse, emergency dentist, pharmacist or GP.

Self-care

Minor injuries such as cuts, grazes, bruises, a sprain, a cough or a cold can often be managed at home in the first instance, with a well-stocked medicine cabinet.

It’s worth keeping a few handy medicines and treatments at home for when you might need them such as painkillers, cough and cold remedies, decongestants, indigestion tablets and a first aid kit.

If you’re not sure, head to 111.nhs.uk or speak to your pharmacist for advice.

Pharmacies 

Many pharmacies also have a prescribing pharmacist who can prescribe prescription medicines.

Many pharmacies are also open late or at weekends.

Find your nearest pharmacy and contact them for support.

Your GP

GP services are the best option for long-term conditions.

Swindon Children's Clinic 

Swindon Children’s Clinic is open Monday- Friday, 8am-4pm, for 2 to 17-year-olds. 

Call 01793 709505 for advice for children and young people or an appointment with a healthcare professional in Swindon. 

Minor Injuries Units

There are two minor injuries units a short drive from Swindon where you may be seen more quickly. They are open to walk-in patients over the age of one with minor injuries and are open until 8pm daily.

Before travelling, please phone the Minor Injury Unit for advice.

If you are not sure what to do, or you think you need medical help right now, NHS 111 can tell you what to do next. 

Urgent and Emergency Care 

The Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) is based at the Great Western Hospital and provides care for urgent, but not life-threatening conditions.

In an emergency or if you think someone's life may be at risk, do not hesitate to phone 999 or visit the Emergency Department at the Great Western Hospital, which is accessed through the Urgent Treatment Centre. 

All walk-in patients, meaning those who do not arrive on an ambulance, must enter the building through the Urgent Treatment Centre entrance, where they will be signposted on the door to the right place for their needs. 

Leaving hospital 

There are lots of things that families, friends and carers can do to support us when patients are well enough to leave hospital.