Dorset’s NHS services are facing increased pressure in the run up to the Bank Holiday weekend, including a rise in people using hospital A&E.

Residents are therefore reminded that getting the right care in the right place can not only help local NHS services, but can help them get the right care more quickly.

Services across the county range from local pharmacies for headaches, coughs and colds, to local minor injuries unit or urgent care centre for sprains, strains and other non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

The StayWell Dorset website has a helpful guide to support people in finding the right

service for their needs. If you are not sure where to go or need advice, call NHS 111.

If you are visiting a hospital over the weekend, remember to wash your hands at the start and end of your visit, and if you have been unwell in the past 48 hours, do not attend to help limit the spread of

bacteria.