PEOPLE in Craven will still be able to access health services over the coming Easter bank holiday weekend.

Even though GP practices will be closed from Good Friday to Monday, NHS telephone and online help and advice will be available to those who are feeling unwell.

Some pharmacies in the district will also be offering an out of hour’s service - to find out where, visit:https://bit.ly/pharmacybankholiday

For common illnesses, sore throats, headaches and aches and pains, over the counter medicines like paracetamol can be purchased. Community pharmacies can also provide healthcare advice and support for common illnesses.

Information on common illnesses and injuries can be found by visiting the NHS website: NHS.UK

People can telephone the NHS helpline at 111 for advise or for direction to the most appropriate part of the NHS, including booking an appointment, if necessary. You should not go to pharmacies if you have Covid symptoms.

Dr Dave Tatham, GP and strategic clinical director at Bradford District and Craven CCG said: “For health needs that are not a life-threatening emergency but are urgent, or if you’re unsure what to do, the friendly teams at NHS 111 will be able to advise you or direct you to the most appropriate part of the NHS, including booking an appointment for you if necessary.

“You can check symptoms using the NHS 111 service on the website – 111.nhs.uk - or by speaking to a fully trained adviser on the phone. You will then be directed to the best service to help you.”

Dr Tatham added: “lockdown restrictions are planned to be lifted ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, which allows more of us to meet up outside. This also means that more people might need the help of the NHS, especially for things like small accidents.

“If you can go online to the NHS website, or use NHS 111 if it is urgent, please do.”