Getting Medical Help

For life-threatening emergencies Call 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.

This includes serious mental health emergencies.

1. Call 999 if someone has:
   • A serious illness or injury that is life-threatening
   • Loss of consciousness
   • Chest pain or severe breathing difficulties
   • Heavy bleeding that will not stop
   • A severe allergic reaction
   • Serious burns or scalds
   • Symptoms of a heart attack or stroke
   • Major trauma (e.g. a serious road accident, stabbing, shooting, or a fall from height)

For urgent, but not life-threatening situations

Use NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) or call 111.

This service is available when your GP practice is closed or if you are unsure where to go.

1. You can also use it:
   • For urgent advice when it’s not a 999 emergency
   • For urgent symptoms in children under 5
   • To get mental health advice from a trained professional
2. Ways to access NHS 111:
   • Call 111 to speak to an advisor or request a callback
   • Go online at 111.nhs.uk to answer questions and get tailored advice
   • Use the NHS App on your smartphone or tablet