This bank holiday weekend (28–30 August), many healthcare services, such as GP practices and pharmacies, will be closed or open with reduced hours.

We want the people in Birmingham and Solihull to think ahead and follow a five-step check to ensure they’re ready for the bank holiday weekend:

1. Collect prescriptions

Avoid any last minute panic by ordering and collecting your medication well ahead of time.

2. Prepare for self-care

Make sure you have basic medicines, such as paracetamol and antihistamines, plus a first aid kit at home.

3. Know the location of your nearest emergency pharmacy

Emergency pharmacists will be available over the bank holiday weekend and can provide advice and over-the-counter medication for many minor health concerns. A list of pharmacy bank holiday opening times is available below.

4. Use NHS 111 online or contact NHS 111 for urgent care

NHS 111 is available 24/7 and their team will provide you with the right care for your needs, including booking you an appointment with an out-of-hours GP if required.

5. Remember A&E is for emergencies only

For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 or go straight to A&E - but remember that if you arrive with a non-emergency condition, you are likely to be directed to a more appropriate service.

Pharmacy opening hours - August Bank Holiday