RESIDENTS in Wyre Forest are being encouraged to make sure they stay well during the festive period.

Dr Clare Marley, Chair and Clinical Lead for NHS Wyre Forest Clinical Commissioning Group, urged people to check their medicine cabinets and ensure they are well stocked up for the break.

Dr Marley has also given advice on where people can go for advice or help during Christmas and New Year.

She said: “As Christmas is nearly upon us, I wanted to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to take steps now to look after their health and wellbeing over the festive period.

“People on regular medication need to make sure they have enough to last over Christmas and New Year.

"Anyone concerned they may not have enough medication to cover the holiday season should contact their GP surgery or local pharmacy in plenty of time to arrange a repeat prescription.

"Now is also a good time to double check that home medicine cabinets are well stocked with over-the counter remedies so that minor illnesses and injuries can be managed at home.

"Emergency departments can be extremely busy at this time of year, so please remember that A&E is for serious and life threatening emergencies only and there are a number of other health services available to help people over the festive period.

"Your local pharmacist can give expert, confidential advice or medicines for minor ailments such as coughs and colds, tummy troubles and much more.

"Check out local pharmacy opening times over the festive period at www.worcestershire.nhs.uk/pharmacy.

"You can Call 111, the free NHS Service, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for fast medical advice when it's not an emergency. This can include arranging an out-of-hours GP appointment.

"Minor Injury Units (MIUs) offer fast, convenient and expert care for minor conditions including cuts, grazes, sprains and burns.

"The nearest one is in Kidderminster and more can be found at www.hacw.nhs.uk/our-services/minor-injuries-units.

"For more information to help you stay well this winter visit www.nhs.uk/staywell.

"I would like to wish you all a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year."