Many pharmacies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be open and ready to help over the May bank holiday weekend (Saturday 3 May – Monday 5 May 2025).
NHS England has published a full list of open pharmacies in Hampshire (including Southampton and Portsmouth) and on the Isle of Wight.
Opening dates and times may vary, so please check with the pharmacy before attending.
Many local pharmacies can now treat common conditions such as shingles, sore throats, earaches, sinusitis, infected insect bites, impetigo, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, including prescribing medication through the Pharmacy First scheme.
Neil Hardy, Chief Pharmacist at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: “Our pharmacy teams are here to help this bank holiday weekend, providing expert advice, medication, and treatment for a range of common conditions. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can advise you on how to manage your minor illness or injury or tell you if you need further treatment by a nurse, GP or other healthcare professional.
“We would encourage everyone to check they have enough repeat medication to last through the bank holiday. If you do run out of prescribed medication, you can request an emergency prescription via 111.nhs.uk. Alternatively, contact your local community pharmacy team for advice.”
Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs) across the area will also be open to provide care for urgent but non-life threatening injuries and illnesses. Waiting times can be shorter than at Emergency Departments. We have UTC’s in Andover, Gosport, Lymington, Petersfield, Portsmouth, Southampton and on the Isle of Wight. Please check your local service for opening times or visit the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight website.
If you’re unsure on the best place to go for treatment, you can contact NHS 111 online 24 hours a day, seven days a week via 111.nhs.uk and the team will find the right support for you, including access to mental health support.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and there are a number of services available for you if you feel that your mental wellbeing is not as good as it could be. You can call 111 anytime to speak to a mental health advisor, or if you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, anyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight can text 'HANTS' to 85258 to speak by text with one of Shout's trained volunteers. Shout is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
If you are worried about your child’s health, you can download the Healthier Together app to find a range of health advice on many common conditions.
If you or someone you know is experience a medical emergency you should call 999 or visit the nearest Emergency Department.