NHS 111

NHS 111 can provide medical help and advice when you have an urgent need which is not an emergency.

The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by going to 111.nhs.uk or by dialling 111, and can help you in these cases:

  • It is not a life-threatening situation and therefore is less urgent than a 999 call
  • You do not have a GP to call or a GP is not available
  • You feel that you cannot wait and are unsure of which service you require
  • You need health information or reassurance about what to do next.

NHS 111 calls are answered by health advisors, supported by experienced clinicians, who will assess your needs and determine the most appropriate course of action to help you. You will not get a diagnosis but you will find out what help you need.

You also can access help from NHS 111 online at https://111.nhs.uk/ for anyone aged five and over. You will be asked the same questions as you would if you called 111. Find out more about how NHS 111 online works here.

At the end of your clinical assessment, we’ll advise you on what clinical help you need and where you need to go to get that clinical help

Sometimes, if appropriate, your call may be referred to one of our clinicians – a trained nurse or paramedic – for further assessment of your condition or for medical advice. 

For less urgent health needs, contact your GP or visit your local pharmacy in the usual way. For information and advice about symptoms, conditions, medicines and treatments visit NHS Choices - www.nhs.uk

For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, always dial 999.

Information about NHS 111 is also available in other languages.