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Patients and Visitors

Get to know where to go

When you use the right NHS service, you get the right treatment sooner.

WWL Staff Nurse, Lara, shares with us the different services available for you and your family, and talks about the importance of getting home as soon as possible if you are ever admitted to hospital.


NHS alternatives

There are lots of health services available, should you need advice or treatment. More information is available at www.gmintegratedcare.org.uk/GTKWTG.

When you use the right NHS service, you get the right treatment sooner.

Find the treatment you need at 111.nhs.uk

If you need medical help fast, but your condition is not life threatening, you can visit NHS 111 online or call 111. 

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the number is free to call and is staffed by trained advisors and experienced clinicians who can assess you, offer advice and direct you to the right place to get the medical care you need as quickly as possible. 

The list below will help you find alternative NHS services available for treating a minor injury.  Find out which NHS service you need.

  • Self-care - you may be able to treat minor illnesses or injuries such as coughs and colds, sprains, strains, insect stings and cuts and grazes yourself. Stock up your cabinets with a first aid kit.
  • Local pharmacist - can give advice for treating common illnesses and the best medicines to use. Find your local pharmacy.
  • Your GP - some illnesses or injuries can be difficult to deal with at home. Or you may feel you need a bit of help after a few days. You can see other healthcare professionals at your GP practice, not just doctors or nurses. Contact your GP through their website or over the phone. If you need access to a GP overnight or on the weekends, visit NHS 111 online or call 111.
  • Urgent Treatment Centres like the one at Leigh Infirmary or the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary are there if you need urgent medical help that’s not serious or life-threatening.
  • Dental care - If you have pain in your mouth, teeth or gums, you will need to contact a dentist – your GP practice won’t be able to help. Contact your regular dentist, if you have one. If they’re closed, or you do not have a regular dentist, call the Greater Manchester Urgent Dental Care Service on: 0333 332 3800.
  • Mental Health Support - If you need mental health advice and support urgently, there are freephone 24/7 crisis helplines for all areas of Greater Manchester. For Bolton, Manchester, Salford, Trafford and Wigan call 0800 953 0285.
  • Visit NHS 111 online or call 111.

Emergency Departments (also known as A&E Departments) are there for serious or life, limb or sight-threatening conditions only.