People in Wakefield District are being urged to choose the right service when they feel unwell, as temperatures continue to drop during autumn.

There is a wide range of services available depending on the level of support you need.

You can speak to a pharmacist if you need health advice quickly but it’s not an emergency,.

They are trained healthcare professionals who can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains. Find your nearest pharmacy on the NHS website.

GP practices can also help and you can call or go online to get support from a member of the practice’s specialist team.

GP Care Wakefield

When your own practice is closed, support is available via GP Care Wakefield which operates at the following times:

• Monday to Friday between 5pm – 9.30pm
• Saturdays 9am – 5pm
• Sundays 9am – 3pm

Simply ring your usual practice number and you will be redirected to a friendly care navigator.  Explain your symptoms as clearly as you can so the care navigator can assess your issue and arrange a telephone consultation or appointment locally, if needed.

If you’re feeling unwell and are really unsure of where to turn, NHS 111 can help. To get help from NHS 111, go to 111.nhs.uk (for people aged 5 and over only) or call 111.  NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For urgent, non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries, King Street Walk In Centre in Wakefield is open between 10am and 10pm every day, including bank holidays. Ring the service on 01924 882350 to speak to a clinician.

Alternatively, Pontefract Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) is also available and open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To book an appointment, please ring NHS 111.

Mental health support

If you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s mental health, you can get help from the 24-hour mental health helpline by calling 0800 183 0558. Children and young people can use the Night OWLS service by calling 0800 1488244, texting 07984 392700 (charges may apply) or using the online chat at www.wynightowls.org.uk.

You should only call 999 or go to an Emergency Department (A&E) in serious or life-threatening situations. Find out more about choosing the right service on the Together We Can website: www.togetherwe-can.com.

Respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu are common at this time of year and you can boost your immunity with a free flu jab and COVID-19 booster which is available to those who are eligible.  There’s more information about the flu vaccine on the NHS website.  You can book your COVID-19 booster online.

Wakefield Council also has more information on how to have a healthy winter this year with a host of helpful information on their Winter Wellness webpage.

Amid the rising cost of living, there is also advice on where to get help if you need support with energy, housing, food, money and benefits on the Wakefield District Health and Care Partnership’s website.