Published on: 28 April 2026
NHS leaders are urging people to think about their health as they make plans for the upcoming Bank Holidays.
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust is planning for May Day on Monday, May 4, and then ahead to Monday, May 25.
Dr Shaz Wahid is the Trust’s Executive Medical Director.
He said:
"Bank Holidays are always a busy time for our services, so we’re asking people to make sure they are ready for the long weekends.
"GP surgeries offer an out-of-hours service, but they won’t be open as usual during these Mondays. If you need to stock up on prescription medications, get that request in now.
"Some pharmacies will be open and are useful for advice. It’s always a good idea to make sure your first aid cabinet is well stocked too.
"People can also use NHS 111 Online which is a great place to start if you want to check out any symptoms. It can also tell you the best place to find treatment if you need it.
"Our Emergency Department staff, as always, will be on hand around the clock for anyone who needs emergency care. We prioritise those who are most seriously ill or injured. Anyone else might face a longer wait and still be told to go elsewhere to be seen."
Anyone who needs advice or to check where is the right place for their care can use NHS 111 Online as a first port of call. In an emergency, they should call 999 or head for their nearest A&E.
Health advice and information is also available via the NHS App, the NHS website or a patient’s GP practice website, which link to a range of online services.
In most cases, people can order repeat prescriptions online. Opening hours for over the weekend can be found through this page: Think pharmacy first
For children’s health advice people can download the Little Orange Book, which offers tips about a wide range of illnesses and conditions.
Those looking after children can also visit the Healthier Together website or can download the app via their phone.
British Sign Language (BSL) speakers can make a BSL video call to 999.
Deaf people can use 18000 to contact 999 using text relay. More details are available via https://999bsl.co.uk/
If you are concerned about how much you, or someone you know, drinks, there’s lots of help available.
Speak to your GP, find your local alcohol support service, or contact Drinkline on freephone 0300 123 1110 or Alcoholics Anonymous on 0845 769 7555.
