New Think campaign encourages local people to stay well and get the right help, right time, first time this winter

Health and care partners across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are encouraging residents to stay well, act early and get the right help, right time, first time, with the launch of the new Think campaign ahead of winter. 

The campaign aims to help people understand the range of health and care support available to them, take simple steps to protect their health and make informed choices about where to go when they need advice, treatment or support. 

By staying well, seeking help early and knowing where to go for support, people can often get the help they need more quickly and avoid unnecessary worry when they are unwell. 

The campaign highlights the support available through self-care, NHS 111, community pharmacy, GP practice teams, urgent care services and mental health support, helping people make informed choices about their health and wellbeing. 

Dr Salma Reehana, GP and Chief Medical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, said: 

“As we approach the winter months, it is important that everyone knows where they can go for help when they need it. Taking a moment to understand the support available can help you get the right help more quickly and with less stress when you need it. 

“Whether that is looking after yourself at home, speaking to your local pharmacist, contacting your GP practice team or using NHS 111, there are a range of services available to support you. Every small choice can make a difference and helps ensure our urgent and emergency services are available for those who need them most.” 

Residents are being encouraged to: 

Think Self-Care – Keep vaccinations up to date if eligible, stay active, eat well, keep warm and be prepared to manage common illnesses at home. 

Think NHS 111 First – If you’re not sure what to do, contact NHS 111 online or by phone for advice and support 24 hours a day. 

Think Pharmacy – Community pharmacists can provide expert advice and treatment for many common illnesses and minor health concerns, often without an appointment. 

Think GP Practice Team – GP practices include a range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists and mental health practitioners, who can provide the right support for patients’ needs. 

Think Urgent Care – the Walk-in Centre at Haywood, Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centres can provide treatment for many urgent but non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. 

Think Mental Health – Anyone experiencing urgent mental health distress can access support through NHS 111 by selecting the mental health option. 

Think Emergency Care – Emergency Departments and 999 services should be used for serious and life-threatening illnesses and injuries. 

Residents are also being encouraged to check in on family members, friends, neighbours and others who may need extra support during the colder months. 

Dr Reehana added: 

“Our local health and care teams continue to work together to prepare for the challenges that winter can bring. However, there is also an important role for all of us in helping to protect ourselves, our families and our communities. 

“By taking simple steps to stay well, acting early when they need support and getting the right help, right time, first time, people can help themselves while helping local health and care services support those who need them most.” 

For more information about local services and advice, visit the ThinkWhichService.co.uk.