With the long Easter weekend fast approaching, Swindon residents are being reminded to get their repeat prescriptions in now to avoid any last-minute panic or being caught short without essential medication.
Many pharmacies across Swindon and the wider Wiltshire region will be closed from the end of the day on Thursday 17th April and not reopen until Tuesday 22nd April. That means any routine prescription request should be submitted no later than Thursday 10th April to ensure it’s ready in good time.
Although some of the more common medications may be processed a little quicker, the message from local health leaders is simple – don’t leave it until the last minute.
Helen Wilkinson, Community Pharmacy Clinical Lead for the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB), is urging people not to underestimate how busy pharmacies can get during holiday periods.
“We’ve got a fantastic pharmacy network here in the region,” Helen explained. “But as with any service, when demand rises sharply around holiday weekends, things can take longer. Ordering in advance gives everyone the best chance to get what they need, without additional stress.”
And it’s not just about ensuring your medicine is ready. Every Easter, NHS 111 receives a spike in calls from people who’ve run out of their regular medication, which adds pressure to a service already focusing on urgent and emergency needs.
The advice? Sort your repeat prescriptions early – not just for your own peace of mind, but to help NHS teams concentrate on the patients who need them most.
Thankfully, ordering a repeat prescription has never been easier. Most people can now do it online through their GP’s website or by using the NHS App, available to download for free on tablets and smartphones.
A limited number of pharmacies will remain open over the Easter bank holidays, including Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, for those in urgent need. Details of which pharmacies are open can be found by using the Find a Pharmacy tool on the NHS website or by visiting the BSW Together website, which will also share opening times through its social media pages.
As well as handling prescriptions, community pharmacies offer walk-in services such as advice for minor illnesses and guidance on home treatments. Many pharmacists are now able to prescribe antibiotics for conditions like sore throats, ear infections, sinusitis, and more – without needing to see a GP.
