Get ready for the Easter bank holiday – order repeat prescriptions now

26 March 2025

 

GPs and many pharmacies will be closed on the Easter bank holidays (18 and 21 April) but there is still time to order and collect repeat prescriptions if needed.

Repeat prescriptions should be ordered at least seven working days in advance which means requests need to be made during the next two weeks to be sure they’ll be ready for collection from pharmacies before Easter.

The easiest and simplest way to make an order is via the NHS App or your GP website but if this isn’t possible, orders can also be handed in at practice reception desks.

It’s also worth stocking up on over-the-counter medicines that might be needed to treat very minor ailments at home over the Easter break.

Pharmacists can advise on home medicine cabinet basics such as painkillers, antihistamines, anti-diarrhoea tablets and a good first-aid kit.

Local GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, Dr Geeta Iyer, said: “Don’t let last-minute medication panics ruin your bank holiday weekend.

“If you have a repeat prescription, it’s important to check whether your current stock of medication will last the long weekend. If not, you should order a repeat prescription now.

“While you’re at the pharmacy, take the opportunity to purchase those home medicine cabinet basics too – they could make the all the difference if you are unwell over the holiday.”

Know your options for bank holiday urgent care

GPs and most pharmacies will be closed on the Easter bank holidays but local NHS urgent care services remain open for those who need help right away and can’t wait until their GP surgery reopens.

NHS 111, at 111.nhs.uk or by phone, should be your first port of call if you think you need help urgently. They provide advice 24 hours a day, including for mental health crises, and will guide you to the best service for your needs.

The local NHS Minor Injury Units in Yate and Clevedon, and the NHS Urgent Treatment Centre in South Bristol, will also be open throughout the bank holiday weekend. They can provide treatment for minor injuries on a walk-in basis, and the South Bristol centre can treat minor illnesses too. Full details are available on the Sirona care & health website.

Some emergency pharmacies are always open on bank holidays and can provide an emergency supply of a prescription-only medicine, and emergency contraception, if required. You can find an emergency pharmacy near you on the nhs.uk website.

Remember, A&E and 999 are for genuine life-threatening emergencies. If you think you need help right away but it’s not an emergency, contact NHS 111 first.