With the Easter bank holiday fast approaching, the NHS has issued a reminder for people who may need help over the four-day weekend. It comes as services may be reduced or closed during the break, potentially leading to delays.

Posting on X, an NHS spokesperson said: "Make sure you’re prepared this Easter bank holiday – order your repeat prescriptions in plenty of time, and check the opening hours of your local services. If you need urgent help, access NHS 111 by using the NHS App, going online or calling."

The message to Brits included five reminders ahead of the long weekend from April 2 to April 5. Firstly, the service urged people who rely on prescription medications to top up on what they might need ahead of the break, as there may be some delays.

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A spokesperson said: "To avoid delays in getting your medicines, order your prescriptions in good time. You can order repeat prescriptions through the NHS App or at your GP practice."

From April 2, some pharmacies across the UK will have reduced hours to account for the two bank holidays on Friday and Monday. The NHS advised people that a quick online search to 'Find an NHS Pharmacy' will bring up information about your nearest one with Easter opening times."

The post went on to remind anyone who needs "urgent medical help" over the Easter weekend should contact NHS 111, which will run as normal over the long weekend. The 24-hour service is available by phone, online or in the NHS App.

The spokesperson added: "If you need to, you can contact your GP practice as normal. If they have different opening hours or are closed, use NHS 111."

"If you think you need urgent dental treatment, contact your usual dentist. If you don't have one, use NHS 111. If an urgent appointment is needed, you will be provided with details of your local out-of-hours services."

NHS 111 can direct you to the best place to get help if you cannot contact your GP during the day, or when your GP is closed. Depending on what you need, you might be advised to:

• Call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency


• Go to an urgent treatment centre


• See an evening and weekend GP (out-of-hours GP)


• Book a callback from a nurse


• Get urgent specialist support for dental or mental health problems


• Contact your own GP surgery


• See a pharmacist for help with a minor illness


• Look after yourself safely at home

The 111 online service is for people aged five and over. Call 111 if you need help for a child under the age of five. For more information about when and how to use the 111 service, go here.