Help for minor illnesses and minor injuries, as well as information and advice about medicines, is available without an appointment from any one of the many community pharmacies across B&NES.

Overlooked by many as a service just for repeat prescriptions, community pharmacies offer far more than many people realise.

Pharmacists are trained medical professionals and can provide health information and advice about how to treat minor illnesses, such as sore throats and upset stomachs, and non-urgent injuries, including small burns and insect bites. Many pharmacies also have private consultation rooms, which provide a confidential space away from the shop floor and patient waiting areas.

Alison Kidner, Pharmacist at Sarum Pharmacy in

Salisbury, said: “People are often surprised when they learn that pharmacies do more than just arrange repeat prescriptions. Although it’s a big part of our day-to-day work, and helps to keep those who take regular medication healthy and mobile, we do provide many other services, all of which are designed to give people the help they need without delay.

“All of our team are experts in providing advice and

information on a range of minor illnesses and injuries, as well as educating people on how best to manage their

specific condition at home.”

In July and August, hospital emergency departments saw a surge in attendances from people who had spent too much time in the sun. In most cases, these conditions could have been safely cared for with a visit to a community pharmacy, reducing the pressure on GP practices and hospital teams looking after life-threatening emergencies.

Health advice and information can also be obtained through the NHS 111 service, as well as via the NHS App.