Did you know that almost half of people who attend A&E last year could have been treated elsewhere? Do you know how to Choose Well?

Winter is the busiest time of the year for the NHS. The bad weather affects pavements and driving conditions leading to more breaks, fractures and traffic accidents, and as the temperature falls there is an increased risk of breathing problems, strokes and heart attacks. Incidents where it is vital that GPs, A&E and 999 teams are available.

With Christmas approaching you may find that the opening hours of services and GPs have changed. This can make it hard to find the right service or treatment during the Christmas period.

If you find that your GP practice is closed or you or a family member has a minor-injury Wirral Community NHS Trust can help.

Need to see a GP?

If you’re a Wirral resident, you can book an appointment to see a GP at the All Day Health Centre, 8am – 10pm, Monday - Sunday by calling 0151 514 2222.

Need to see a GP at the weekend or overnight?

Call the GP Out of Hours service on 0151 678 8496, 6.30pm – 8.00am, Monday – Friday and 24 hours a day at weekends and bank holidays

For minor injuries and illnesses you can drop-in to a nurse led Walk-in Centre at Victoria Central Health Centre (with X-ray facilities), All Day Health Centre at Arrowe Park or Eastham Clinic. We aim to see you within four hours. No appointment needed, just turn up.

Choose Well this winter and help keep A&E for those people who really need a hospital.

Top tips for keeping well this winter:

  • eat a varied and well balanced diet with hot meals and drinks
  • stay active  -but take care when out on slippery pavements
  • keep your home warm - 18°-21°C or 64°-70°F is recommended
  • wrap up warm – use several thinner layers rather than one thick layer
  • prepare for winter illnesses by visiting your local pharmacy and stocking up on essential remedies and advice