Dr Peter Brindle, Medical Director for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group said:

“While we do have some pharmacies and healthcare settings open on the Bank Holidays and over the weekend, many of them will be closed. By checking if you have enough of your repeat medication to last you over the Easter period and ordering any medication you need in good time, you will save yourself the worry of running out over the long weekend.

“With our health and care services still under immense pressure, please can we ask that you do not come to A&E if you run out of medication. Instead, please either contact your usual pharmacy if it is open or contact another pharmacy. You can also call 111 for advice. Can we remind you that you should endeavour to always make sure you have basic medication at home to treat very minor ailments like coughs and colds and also do not visit healthcare settings, including pharmacies, if you have symptoms of Covid-19.”

Ordering repeat prescriptions can be done online with many GP practices, who can also send prescriptions directly to local pharmacies for collection. Getting prescriptions online can save time and help avoid unnecessary trips to the GP.

A list of pharmacies and their opening times over the Easter weekend can be found on the NHS website.

Residents can also still get their Covid-19 vaccinations or boosters. Taking up the Covid-19 booster avoids the risk of serious illness – see www.grabajab.net for details

Urgent care services including the minor injury units in Yate and Clevedon and the urgent treatment centre in South Bristol are open as usual, from 8am to 8pm throughout the holiday period.

For urgent advice and help in accessing the right service, contact NHS 111 at any time or visit www.nhs.uk to find services near you.