NHS urges parents to know healthcare options during half-term

With children across Swindon looking forward to week of messing about, playing outside and generally enjoying being off school, parents are being reminded of the healthcare options available to them should their little one have an accident or become ill.

The NHS in Swindon has all bases covered when it comes to minor injuries and illnesses, with a number of different services available to treat everything from an upset tummy and sore throat to fractured arms and sprained ankles.

Dr Sarah Bruen, Interim Clinical Chair, Swindon Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It’s a good idea for parents to know what help is available should their child pick up an injury or become ill during the holidays.

“For the less serious, such as colds, sore throats, runny noses and upset tummies, parents can call in on their local pharmacist who can provide tips on self-care and, in some cases, medicine – all without needing an appointment.

“If it’s something a bit more pressing – think high temperatures, rashes, persistent sickness and the kinds of illnesses that cannot wait to be seen – the children’s SUCCESS clinics at Moredon Medical Centre and the new Swindon NHS Health Centre offer same-day GP appointments.

“To get an appointment, parents can contact their surgery and specifically ask for a slot or call the SUCCESS clinic directly on 01793 342000.”

The Walk-in Centre in Islington Street, as well as the Urgent Care Centre at the Great Western Hospital, will be open as normal throughout the school holidays and can provide same-day healthcare without an appointment for all minor injuries and illnesses.

Parents who are unsure of where to take their child – or if they need to take their child anywhere at all – should make use of the NHS 111 service, which is now available online, as well as on the telephone. 

Manned by a team of trained healthcare professionals, the NHS 111 phone service can provide parents with helpful advice and information in just a few minutes, whereas the new online function will ask questions about a child’s symptoms before suggesting the best course of action to take.