Calling NHS 111 First
How it works
If you have an urgent but not life threatening problem, you can contact NHS 111 First and speak to a trained professional about your symptoms. You can ask for a translator if you need one.
Depending on the situation you will:
- find out what local service can help you
- be connected to a nurse, emergency dentist, pharmacist or GP
- get a face-to-face appointment if you need one
- be given an arrival time if you need to go to A&E
- be told how to get any medicine you need
- get self-care advice
If the advisor thinks you need to go to A&E, they can then book an appointment for you at your local A&E or emergency department, which means you will have an allocated time slot to attend hospital. You no longer have to wait long to be treated, and services won't be as crowded. You can wait at home until it is your allocated time to go to hospital.
Your NHS 111 advisor can also book you an appointment with a GP, pharmacist or urgent care treatment centre, and may also give you advice over the phone.
How do I use this service?
This service is available online or by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can access it by dialing 111, which is free of charge, or by visiting NHS 111.
