25 July 2024

Many children have now finished school for the summer, and we are encouraging parents to know where to go, and who to contact if they need medical support for their little ones during the holidays.

Services that are available across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight include:

  • NHS 111 online
  • Pharmacies
  • Urgent Treatment centres
  • The Healthier Together app
  • Shout text service (Mental health support service)
  • Emergency departments

You can help us to help you by choosing the right service when you or your child needs medical help or advice, and this will also help you get the treatment you need in a timely way.

The Healthier Together app is a great source of advice for parents and carers. The app can help you decide whether you can self-care at home or if you need help, which service is best for the needs of children aged up to 18. 111 online is also a great place to start if you require advice on how best to care for your poorly child and can direct you to the right service.

Did you know that if your child had an infected insect bite, earache or impetigo for example, pharmacies in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are now able to treat children over 1 year old without needing to see your GP. They can also treat children over 5 for sore throats. 

Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC) can help with injuries and illnesses that need urgent medical attention but aren’t life threatening. Waiting times can also be shorter than at Emergency Departments and the team can also refer or direct you to the most appropriate service for you. Use NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk or call for advice before visiting the UTC.

Mental health is just as important as physical health and there are a number of services available if you feel that your or your child’s mental wellbeing is not as good as it could be.  You can call 111 anytime to speak to a mental health advisor, or if you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, anyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight can text 'HANTS' to 85258 to speak by text with one of Shout's trained volunteers. Shout is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. 

Dr Zaid Hirmiz, a Hampshire GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: “If your child is feeling unwell or has had an injury, there are a number of services available across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight where you can get help.

“The Healthier Together app is a great place to start as it provides information and advice regarding your child’s health at your fingertips. You'll find clear information on common illnesses, including advice on what serious signs to look out for, where to seek help if required, what you should do to keep your child comfortable and for how long their symptoms are likely to last.

“We hope everyone can enjoy their summer holiday and if you do need the NHS, please consider carefully which service can best help you. There are many options available which mean our hospital emergency departments are kept free for those who need them the most.”

Emergency Departments (EDs) at hospitals are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week for serious and life-threatening conditions. If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency you should call 999 or visit the nearest Emergency Department.