Which service do you need?

drawing of an electronic device showing information about someone's healthNHS emergency services are there for you in emergency and life-saving situations. But many people are going to A&E with problems that are not emergencies. This makes A&E very busy and means you and other people have to wait longer for treatment.

You should go to A&E if you need immediate, emergency care and have symptoms of serious illness or injuries that could be life threatening. You can read more about when to go to A&E on the NHS website.

If you need urgent care that is not an emergency, you can get quicker treatment closer to home. There are many services available:

NHS website

Visit www.nhs.uk to:

  • Check your symptoms to see if you need further treatment
  • Better understand your health so you can stay well
  • Find out what services are available if you need treatment

Call NHS 111

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers. Depending on the situation, they can connect you to a nurse, emergency dentist or even a GP, and can arrange face-to-face appointments if they think you need one. Calls are free from mobiles and landlines.

Visit your local pharmacy

There are many local pharmacies on the high street, in supermarkets and shopping centres. You don’t need an appointment and they can offer expert advice on bugs and viruses, minor injuries, tummy troubles, skin conditions and allergies. Find your nearest pharmacy.

Visit your GP

GPs help with treatment and advice for health problems and minor injuries. You may not be able to get an appointment immediately but practices will see you as soon as possible. Evening and weekend appointments are available, so contact your GP to find out about available appointments.

The reception team may ask what the problem is so that they can refer you to the most appropriate healthcare professional or service, such as a physiotherapist or mental health support, saving you time.

Visit a Minor Injuries Unit

Minor Injuries Units (MIUs) provide assessment and treatment for a wide range of minor injuries in both adults and children.

They can be found at Crowborough and Uckfield community hospitals and are open from 8am – 8pm, seven days a week.

Walk in services

Walk in services are available 8am-8pm at:

  • Eastbourne Station Health Centre – 01323 726650
  • Station Plaza Health Centre, Hastings – 01424 884410

Mental health crisis support

Support services are available for people suffering from mental health problems who are at risk and may not be able to keep themselves safe, or who are considering attending A&E for help with their mental health.

  • The Sussex Mental Healthline is a telephone service offering support and information to anyone experiencing mental health problems including stress, anxiety and depression. The service is also available to carers and healthcare professionals. You do not need an appointment.

Call 0300 5000 101, Monday to Friday 5pm to 9am, and 24 hours at weekends and Bank Holidays. Visit www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/sussex-mental-healthline

If you are in crisis and need urgent support visit this web page for advice.

Emergency dental

If your own dentist cannot help or you don’t have a dentist, call the NHS Dental Helpline on 0300 1231663, Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm, for an appointment.

If you need help outside these hours, call NHS 111 or contact the East Sussex Emergency Dental Service:

  • Eastbourne: (01323) 449170 from 6.30pm – 10.30pm weekdays or 1pm – 5.30pm weekends and bank holidays.
  • Hastings: (01424) 850792 from 6.30pm – 10.30pm weekdays or 9am – 1.30pm weekends and bank holidays.
  • Lewes: (01273) 486444 from 6.30pm – 10.30pm weekdays or 9am – 1.30pm weekends and bank holidays.

This isn’t a drop-in service so you’ll need to call to make an appointment.