Partygoers and workers enjoying the long Diamond Jubilee weekend are being urged to ‘choose well’ when it comes to health services.

Both GP and dental practices will be closed from Friday up to and including Tuesday, June 5 and many pharmacies will have different opening hours.

Book GP appointments early if they are feeling unwell and to make sure they order and collect their repeat prescriptions to avoid running out of medication over the long weekend.

Also replenish the home medicine cabinet so that it is stocked with what people need to look after themselves and their families if they have a minor illness or injury.

If you do need help over the holiday options available to choose from:

NHS Direct

If you are unsure of where to go or what to do call NHS Direct, a 24-hours seven-day-a- week service on 0845 46 47 or through their website: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.

Pharmacists

If you have a common condition or minor ailment your pharmacist can help and offer emergency contraception, treatments for allergies sun protection, advice to help you decide whether you need to see a doctor.

Emergency dental treatment: contact an out-of-hours service on: 020 7377 7151.

GPs

To access GP out-of-hours services call your GP practice and hear a message providing you with the contact details.

Walk-in services

You see an experienced nurse or doctor without making an appointment and have access to a range of treatment.

Minor injury units/Urgent care centres

If your injury is not serious, you can get help from a minor injuries unit (MIU) or urgent care centre rather than going to A&E.

A&E

Call 999 if life is at risk, person cannot move or it would be dangerous for to move them. Choose other services before calling or going to A&E.

Dr May Cahill from NHS North East London and the City said with the likely increased pressure on health services making sure you know the options available is the key to making decisions.