🎄 Staying Well This Christmas and New Year – A Helping Hand When You Need It
Christmas is meant to be a happy time. A chance to rest, celebrate and spend time with family and friends.
But for many people, it can be hard going.
You might feel unwell. You might feel lonely. Or you may not know where to turn for help.
This guide is here to help. It covers health care, support, and wellbeing hubs. All close to home.
💊 Think Pharmacy First – Quick Help on Your High Street
If you feel poorly, your local pharmacy is often the best first stop.
Pharmacists can help with common problems like:
- Sore throats
- Earache
- Sinus pain
- Infected bites or skin rashes
- Shingles
- Simple urine infections in women
You do not need an appointment. Many pharmacies stay open when GP surgeries are shut over Christmas.
If it’s something minor, they can often sort it there and then.
📱 NHS 111 and the NHS App – Help Day or Night
GP surgeries may be closed on bank holidays and weekends, but help is still there.
You can:
- Visit 111.nhs.uk
- Call 111
- Use the NHS App
These services are open 24 hours a day.
They can:
- Check your symptoms
- Give advice
- Tell you where to go
- Book you help if you need it
The NHS App is also handy for:
- Ordering repeat prescriptions
- Checking appointments
- Viewing your health record
It’s worth having on your phone. The NHS App is free to download and use.
For other inuries or illnesses, there is also Ponteland Road Urgent Treatment Centre.
The team at the centre can help with minor burns and scalds, infected wounds, sprains, cuts, grazesand possible broken bones. The Centre is open 8 am to 10 pm every day of the year. No appointment is needed.
Remember, A&E and 999 is for life-threatening emergencies only.
☕ Wellbeing Hubs – Warm Spaces and Friendly Faces
Christmas can feel lonely. You are not on your own.
Across Newcastle and nearby areas, there are dozens Wellbeing Hubs open this winter.
These are safe, warm places where you can:
- Sit in the warm
- Have a hot drink or snack
- Use free Wi-Fi
- Chat with others
- Get advice and support
You don’t need a reason to go. Just turn up.
They are there for everyone.
There are also lots of local events over Christmas and New Year. Visit InformationNOW for full listings.
🧡 Look Out for Each Other
A small act can mean a lot. If you know someone who might be struggling:
- Give them a ring
- Knock on the door
- Share a cuppa or a chat
Older neighbors or relatives might find getting out and about harder in the winter. Cold weather can be a worry. Popping in to check they’re warm enough, have their prescriptions and other supplies, can make a big difference. Age UK have some great advice if you are worried about an older person.
💗 Look After Yourself
Amongst all the busy events and looking after others, it’s easy to forget yourself. Try to find small pockets of time just for you – to rest, to move or doing something you enjoy.
If you feel low, help is there. Text CALMER to 85258 for free, confidential, 24/7 text support if you are struggling to cope.
🎄 Merry Christmas from All of Us
We hope this guide helps you feel supported over the festive break.
Whether you need medical advice, a warm place to go, or a bit of company, help is there.
From everyone at Jesmond Health Partnership, Merry Christmas, and we wish you a healthy New Year 💚