NHS Cornwall Shares Summer Health Advice for Residents and Visitors

With Cornwall’s summer in full swing and thousands of people enjoying the coast, the NHS is reminding everyone – residents and holidaymakers alike – to know where to go if they need medical help.

The Where is best? campaign from NHS Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly includes a new short film titled Cream on top, filmed at iconic Cornish locations and featuring local healthcare professionals offering essential advice to help people stay well over the holidays.

Top Tips from the NHS for a Healthy Holiday

Susan Bracefield, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is urging visitors to take simple steps to avoid needing emergency care.

“If you’re visiting our coastal county over the holidays, there are a few simple things you can do to stay safe and well,” said Susan. “Pack a basic first aid kit, keep a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated, and use insect repellent – especially if you’re out exploring. These small steps can make a big difference to your wellbeing. And while you’re here in Cornwall, our top tip is to remember always have your (sun) cream on top!”

What to Do If You Need Help

The NHS has laid out a clear guide to help you decide where to go if you or a family member becomes unwell or gets injured during your time in Cornwall:

1. Look After Yourself First

Carry sun cream, water, insect repellent and your medication. For more practical tips on staying well, check out the NHS advice on self-care.

2. Head to Your Nearest Pharmacy

There are 90 pharmacies across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Many can help with:

• Sinusitis (age 12+)

• Sore throat (age 5+)

• Earache (age 1–17)

• Infected insect bites (age 1+)

• Impetigo (age 1+)

• Shingles (age 18+)

• UTIs in women (age 16–64)

Some also offer emergency contraception, blood pressure checks and emergency supplies of prescription medications. Use this tool to find your nearest pharmacy.

3. Contact Your Own GP

Even when you’re away from home, you can still call your own GP. Many offer phone or video consultations and can send prescriptions to a pharmacy near where you’re staying.

4. Visit a Minor Injury Unit or Urgent Treatment Centre

These are open evenings and weekends and can treat things like broken bones and cuts needing stitches. There’s also an urgent treatment centre at West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance. It’s a good idea to check opening hours and live waiting times before heading out, as your nearest site may not always be the quickest.

5. Use NHS 111

If you’re unsure where to go, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice. This service is available 24/7.

6. Mental Health Support

You can also call 111 for urgent mental health matters. For more support, visit the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.

7. For Life-Threatening Emergencies, Call 999

Always dial 999 or head to the emergency department for serious issues like chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding or suspected stroke.

Help for People with Hearing Loss

• NHS 111 | SignVideo: A British Sign Language interpreter connects you with an NHS 111 adviser

• 999 BSL: Contact emergency services directly in BSL

• Relay UK: Enables a text relay between operator, clinician and patient

Visiting the Isles of Scilly?

For specific information on medical support and service opening times, visit the Isles of Scilly health information.

You can also find more advice, news and updates on the Where is best? page or follow NHS Cornwall on Facebook.