Published 29th July 2022 by

The NHS in Norfolk and Waveney has launched an eye-catching new summer campaign, ‘Happy Healthy Holidays’. The campaign urges both residents and holiday-makers to choose the right health service for illnesses and injuries this summer.

The campaign aims to reduce the number of people going to emergency departments (A&Es) with minor problems.

It reminds both residents and visitors of the wide range of support that is available for anyone who needs medical help. The campaign provides advice on how to look after your health during the warm summer months, and urges people to get help for their health in the right place.

Choose the right health service this summer:

  • Contact NHS 111 by calling 111 or visiting https://111.nhs.uk for advice on what to do and where best to go for treatment for urgent medical problems.

Anyone who thinks they need A&E should call 111 first, and they can book a time slot at an emergency department if necessary. Calling 111 first will help urgent and emergency care services to ensure that patients receive the right care in the right place, in a timely and safe way.

  • Visit a pharmacy for expert help and advice on common conditions such as hay fever, tummy troubles, cuts and bruises, and insect bites.
  • Drop into the NHS Walk-In Centre at Rouen House on Rouen Road in Norwich. Open between 7am and 9pm daily to provide help with minor cuts and wounds, strains and sprains, and skin complaints.
  • Go to the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) in Cromer or Wisbech. These facilities have x-rays and can provide treatment for minor wounds, burns, simple fractures and other injuries. People can call 111 for their locations and opening times.

In a joint statement, Tricia D’Orsi, Director of Nursing for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, and Dr Frankie Swords, Medical Director for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: “The recent heatwave has added pressure onto our health services which are already experiencing unprecedented levels of demand.

“By reminding people of the options which are available for more minor complaints, we hope that we can reduce pressure on our emergency departments and keep them free to focus on treating patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

“Although we are specifically targeting this campaign at holiday-makers, we’d also like to take the opportunity to remind local people of the range of help which is available. By going to the right place first time, you will often be seen faster, which means that you can get back to enjoying your holiday more quickly.”

Get top tips for enjoying the summer safely with Happy Healthy Holidays. Visit happyhealthyholidays.co.uk