NHS 111 explained — when to call it and what it does

NHS 111 is the NHS's non-emergency medical helpline in England. Call 111 (or visit 111.nhs.uk) when you need urgent medical help but it is not a life-threatening emergency.

When to call 111

• You need medical advice urgently but your GP surgery is closed
• You are not sure whether to go to A&E
• You need a same-day appointment and cannot get one from your GP
• A child has a high temperature and you are worried

When to call 999

Life-threatening emergencies: chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, suspected stroke (FAST test), severe allergic reaction, heavy uncontrolled bleeding.

What happens when you call

A trained call handler asks about your symptoms and an algorithm determines the recommended course of action: call back from a clinician, go to a walk-in centre, go to A&E, or call 999. Average wait times vary.