People in the Vale of York are encouraged to think ‘Pharmacy First’ if they require help with minor health conditions during the August bank holiday weekend.

Vale of York GP surgeries will not open during the upcoming bank holiday weekend, including on bank holiday Monday (27 August), but several pharmacies in York and Selby will be open and are the recommended place to go for treatment and advice for minor injuries and ailments, including:

• Colds and flu
• Coughs
• Sore throats
• Upset stomachs
• Ear infections
• Back pain
• Minor rashes
• Headaches

Below is a comprehensive timetable showing which pharmacies in York and Selby will be open on bank holiday Monday.


Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals who can provide many of the same services that GPs do, but you don’t need to book an appointment to see them.

They can also answer questions you might have about any medication you’re taking and, if they can't help, they'll let you know whether or not you need to see a doctor or where else you could get the most appropriate treatment.

Dr Kevin Smith, Executive Director of Primary Care and Population Health at NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Pharmacists are the best people to see for advice and help with minor illnesses and injuries, and you can see them without having to book an appointment beforehand. Seeing a pharmacist when appropriate helps to free up other NHS services, which are often extremely busy during weekends and bank holidays.

“While pharmacies are the best place to go for help with minor health concerns, you should use the NHS 111 phone or online service if you require urgent medical help or advice for a non-life-threatening condition; or call 999 if you have a medical emergency, such as breathing difficulties, chest pains or if you’ve been in a serious accident.”

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