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Plan ahead this Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend

Posted on: 31 May 2022

As London prepares for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations between 2-5 June, the NHS is gearing up to provide help and care to anyone in London who may need it during the bank holiday weekend. 

Medical Director for the NHS in London, Dr. Chris Streather recommends Londoners get ahead of their healthcare needs early, as the four-day bank holiday weekend is expected to cause additional pressures on NHS services. With some GPs and pharmacies closed or working reduced hours, it is important to be prepared in advance for any existing health conditions.

“The Jubilee weekend is an exciting time for Londoners, with many local celebrations taking place. Frontline NHS staff across the capital will be working hard and we anticipate emergency services to be busier than usual.

“Collect any repeat prescriptions early and ensure you have enough medication to last the long weekend. By planning in advance, you will be protecting yourself and reducing pressures on emergency services.”

Should you require health advice or think yourself or a child may require A&E, use the NHS 111 online service for assistance, where you will be quickly directed to the best route of care for you. 

Stay safe in the sun and hydrated 

By not spending long periods in the direct sun, staying hydrated, and using sunscreen you can protect yourself from feeling unwell, as the heat can bring added health risks for many.

Public spaces 

If you are celebrating in London this weekend, remember to drink responsibly, try to avoid large crowds or wear a face mask in crowded spaces, and only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

Medication and repeat prescriptions 

Help us help you by making sure you’ve ordered and collected any medication or repeat prescriptions you may need in advance of the bank holiday weekend, where some NHS services may have different opening hours than normal.

Pharmacies in London will have different opening hours than normal, and some will be closed.

You can use the NHS Pharmacy Finder to find an open pharmacy near you or visit NHS London’s website to find a list of pharmacies open over the bank holiday weekend in the capital. 

Pharmacists are trained medical professionals and can advise you on a range of minor illnesses, from stomach aches to skin rashes and colds. Seeing a pharmacist is often the best first step for minor health concerns, and they can provide one-to-one, confidential consultations. 

You can find a list of pharmacies that are open over the Jubilee weekend here. The regularly updated NHS Find a Pharmacy site will also provide updates for local pharmacies near you.

Urgent medical care 

Some GP services will be available over the bank holiday weekend. For urgent medical or dental advice or care, contact your GP practice or use the NHS 111 online service here for quick support and information.

COVID-19 Vaccinations and guidance 

Taking simple steps to reduce infections from COVID-19 is still recommended to protect those at highest risk. You can: