The last few months have been an extremely stressful and worrying time for us all but I want to reassure you that whatever your concern, your NHS is still here for you and it is important you get the help you need.

We know that some of you are worried that you might be a burden to the NHS, or that you could contract Covid-19 if you seek help for an urgent medical issue at the moment – but we have done all we can to minimise any risk.

If you need a GP appointment, there are lots of ways to do this – visit your GP practice website, use an NHS app to book online, or call your practice.

Most appointments with a GP or nurse will now be via a phone call, and if you are told you need to see someone in person, the NHS has put strict measures in place to make sure you are seen safely.

It is important that you continue to attend routine appointments, such as antenatal checks, sexual health advice and contraception, and childhood vaccinations, as normal, unless you have been told not to attend.

If you have an urgent medical need, visit NHS 111 online – if you cannot access the internet, call 111. If it is a serious or life-threatening emergency, such as if you or a family member have symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 999 immediately. If you are told to go to hospital, it is really important that you go.