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

Your local pharmacist can help with things like colds, tummy troubles, rashes and pains. They can also suggest over-the-counter medications, and provide seasonal health tips. No appointment needed – just walk in!

Find your nearest pharmacy.

For non-urgent health concerns, your GP is the best place to start. They know your health history and can provide personalised care. GP practices can often offer advice over the phone or via online appointments.

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.

Find a GP practice.

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.

Find out more about GP Care Wakefield.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Email: Wakefield.SH@spectrum-cic.nhs.uk

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.

Find your local Family Hub.