REDDITCH and Bromsgrove residents are being urged to consider their healthcare options over the bank holiday weekend, as emergency services face extra pressure.

There is always extra pressure on emergency services over bank holidays with many people choosing to visit A&E, when there are a number of other health services available.

There will be a change in opening times for some NHS services with some closures on Monday, August 28.

In Redditch, the in-store pharmacy at Tesco on Coldfield Drive opens from 9am-6pm, while the Lloyds Pharmacy on Abbey Trading Estate on the Alvechurch Highway opens from 9am-7m.

In Bromsgrove the Morrison's pharmacy on Buntsford Park Road opens from 9am-5pm

Bromsgrove’s Minor Injury Unit (MIUs) at the Princess of Wales Community Hospital, on Stourbridge Road, offers fast, convenient and expert care for minor conditions including cuts, grazes, sprains and burns, and is open 12pm-8pm on Monday, instead of its usual 8am start.

Mari Gay, Chief Operating Officer for the three Worcestershire CCGs, said: “It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’re fully prepared for the bank holiday weekend.

"There are a number of different things people can do to be ready, for example, collect your repeat prescription in good time, keep your medicine cabinet fully stocked and know which healthcare services are available to you.

“If you need help when your local GP Surgery is not open, you can call 111, which is a free NHS Service and can quickly direct you to the right health service, including out of hours GP appointments. Pharmacists can also help with a range of common conditions and minor injuries.”