Health leaders in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire are encouraging parents to refresh their knowledge of local NHS services, so they know the right service to use at the right time when their child becomes unwell.
They’ve created a useful family planner, which signposts where to go for everything from self-care to minor illnesses and injuries.
It also has space for parents to jot down important contact details for their GP practice and nearest services for urgent and emergency care.
The planner is available to download for free at www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth.
Ideal for fridge doors and family noticeboards, it is intended to be the go-to cheatsheet that will help mums and dads know exactly where to go when their little one is ill or injured.
Parents can also visit www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth for more information about the services available, to help them choose the right service at the right time.
Using services wisely means that help is there for patients when they need it most. Often self-care can be the most appropriate course of action, especially at this time of year when children are going back to school.
Dr Amanda Webb, Chief Medical Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“As a parent of school-aged children, I know that this time of year is prevalent for coughs and colds, and that they get passed around easily when kids are back in class together.
“Keeping poorly children at home is the best place for them to rest and recover, with parents able to find advice and guidance on how to manage their symptoms through NHS 111, which is available at www.111.nhs.uk.”
When illness and injury require urgent and emergency treatment, services such as the urgent treatment centres at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon and the Royal United Hospital in Bath, along with the walk-in centre in Salisbury, may be more appropriate.
While the centres can be accessed without an appointment, using NHS 111 before setting off will help parents to know whether they are heading to the right service, as help may be available quicker elsewhere, such as through a community pharmacy.
The region’s minor injuries unit in Chippenham, Paulton and Trowbridge can also offer assistance for common childhood conditions such as cuts, bruising, small burns and animal bites.
Full details of the health and care services available throughout Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire can be found online at www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth
