Local services guide
This guide will help you find the best local NHS service for your needs.
Choosing the right service means you’ll get the care you need as quickly as possible, whether it’s an everyday concern, an ongoing health issue, or an emergency.
Have a look through this page for information on health services and wellbeing support.
Below are some tips for staying well during the winter months. You can find out more by visiting togetherwe-can.com
- Keep warm by layering clothing and heating your home to at least 18 degrees.
- Food is a vital source of energy and helps to keep your body warm so have plenty of hot food and drinks.
- Don’t let the cold catch you out, check the weather forecast and be ready for cold weather.
- Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls.
- Check you have enough medication in case you are unable to go out and order repeat prescriptions in plenty of time.
- Check in on elderly relatives or neighbours who may need extra support.
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Get help at home
Self-care
For small cuts, burns, fever, or colds, simple remedies can help you feel better. Rest, drink plenty of water, and use over-the-counter medicine when needed.
Use this shopping list to help you get everything you need. If you’re unsure, a pharmacist can offer advice.
Shopping list
- Hand sanitiser
- Thermometer
- Painkillers (including infant paracetamol for children)
- Cough medicine
- Throat lozenges
- Diarrhoea relief
- Antiseptic wipes or cream
- Allergy medicine (antihistamines)
- Plasters
- Tweezers and scissors
- Bandages
- Disposable gloves
- Alcohol-free cleansing wipes
NHS 111
NHS 111 is here 24/7 for guidance. Visit 111.nhs.uk or call NHS 111 to find out which service is best for you.
NHS App
The NHS App gives you a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services. Download the NHS App on your smartphone or tablet via the Google play or App store. You can also access the same services in a web browser by logging in through the NHS website.
You can use the NHS App to do the following:
- order repeat prescriptions and nominate a pharmacy where you would like to collect them
- book and manage appointments
- view your GP health record to see information like your allergies and medicines (if your GP has given you access to your detailed medical record, you can also see information like test results)
- book and manage COVID-19 vaccinations
- register your organ donation decision
- choose how the NHS uses your data
- view your NHS number (find out what your NHS number is)
- use NHS 111 online to answer questions and get instant advice or medical help near you
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Your local pharmacy
Pharmacists are trained medical professionals and can help with things like colds, tummy troubles, rashes and pains. They can also help you with advice and over the counter medicines
No appointment needed – just walk in!
Find out more about how your pharmacy can help you.
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Your GP Practice
You GP practice knows your health history and can provide personalised care.
Alongside GPs, other professionals, such as nurse practitioners, paramedics, pharmacists and physiotherapists can all help you with your healthcare needs.
Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free to register. You do not need proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS number.
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Get care when your GP practice is closed
If you are registered with a Wakefield District GP practice and feel unwell when they are closed, you can get help from GP Care Wakefield through their evening and weekend clinics.
GP Care Wakefield can also help you if you struggle to make routine daytime appointments with your practice nurse.
How to book a GP Care Wakefield appointment
To book a routine daytime appointment with GP Care Wakefield, please contact your GP practice’s reception team.
If you are unwell when your practice is closed, call your usual GP practice number and you will automatically be put through to GP Care Wakefield.
When is this service available?
Monday to Friday: 5pm to 9:30pm
Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sunday: 9am to 1pm
Bank Holidays: 9am to 3pm -
King Street Walk-in Centre
Need care quickly but it’s not an emergency? Visit the King Street Walk-in Centre. No appointment needed and open seven days a week, 365 days a year, between the hours of 10am and 10pm.
The walk in service is open for patients (except children under 6 months and pregnancy related issues) who need same-day care and cannot wait to see their own GP. The service is operated by a dedicated team of experienced clinicians who can assess, diagnose and treat a range of minor illnesses and minor injuries that do not need an x-ray, including:
- ear, nose and throat problems
- sprains and strains
- wound infections
- minor burns and scalds
- minor head injuries
- skin conditions
- minor respiratory conditions
- mild abdominal pain or discomfort
- insect and animal bites and stings
- minor eye problems
- minor injuries to the back, shoulder and chest
- urgent wound dressings
- emergency contraception
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Pontefract Urgent Treatment Centre
Pontefract Urgent Treatment Centre can provide medical help when it’s not a life-threatening emergency. They can diagnose and deal with many of the common problems people go to A&E for.
They can help with things like:
- sprains and strains
- suspected broken bones
- injuries, cuts and bruises
- stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea
- skin infections and rashes
- high temperature in children and adults
- mental health concerns
If you need a prescription one can be organised for you. Emergency contraception is also available.
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A&E and 999 – emergency only
An accident and emergency (A&E) department deals with life-threatening emergencies and serious accidents, such as: loss of consciousness, chest pain, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, severe allergic reactions, severe burns or scalds and strokes.
Not all hospitals have an A&E department. Find your nearest A&E department.
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How to recognise if your child is seriously ill
Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust have produced a guide to help parents and carers recognise if their child is seriously ill. View the guide: How to recognise if your child is seriously ill.pdf
You can also access lots of helpful advice and information on West Yorkshire Healthier Together, a website that gives consistent, accurate and trustworthy healthcare advice to parents, carers, young people and professionals.
The information on West Yorkshire Healthier Together has been reviewed by local paediatricians, GPs and clinicians across the region to ensure it aligns with current practices and procedures.
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Spectrum Sexual Health Services
Spectrum provides comprehensive sexual health services which are professional, compassionate and confidential. We offer advice, support and treatment on a range of matters, including contraception, pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV and more. Our services are open to people of all ages, gender and ethnic background – you can contact us without visiting a GP first. To book an appointment, simply visit our clinic in Wakefield City Centre at the Trinity Walk shopping centre (behind Asda), Unit LG1A, Wakefield, WF1 1QS. Appointments can also be booked online once someone has registered with us.
More information can be found on Spectrum’s sexual health website.
Phone: 0800 1214860
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Other local services
These aren’t healthcare services but they do offer great support for your wellbeing!
Welcome Spaces
Welcome Spaces are open to you as a free warm, safe place where you can enjoy a hot drink and friendly company. Everyone has a right to be warm, so expect a warm welcome when you visit.
Find your nearest Welcome Space.
Family Hubs
Raising a family can have its difficulties and challenges, but just know that when you need support, there are people and places on hand who can talk to you to find the help you need.
Family Hubs are there for you to access early help, meet other local families, take part in activities, and join helpful groups.
Mental health services
Mental health support is available in Wakefield District for adults, children and young people.
Vaccinations and immunisations
Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health.
Support with cost of living
Help is available for people in Wakefield District, with a range of services that can offer information, advice and support.
