Celebrate with care this Jubilee weekend

People in Oxfordshire are being urged to celebrate with care ahead of the upcoming Jubilee bank holiday weekend.

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The upcoming Jubilee weekend will no doubt be an opportunity for many people to relax, socialise, and have a good time with friends and family.

"The NHS is very much here for people over the bank holiday weekend, but we want to keep our Emergency Department for genuine emergencies only. The teams at NHS 111 can help direct you to the best service for your needs, including those out of hours.

"Prepare ahead – make sure your prescriptions are up to date, keep your medicine cupboard stocked up, and celebrate with care."

People are also encouraged to help those around them over the bank holiday, especially with several community events going ahead.

Lily O'Connor, Director of Urgent Care for Oxfordshire, said: "There are many events going on this weekend, and plenty of people will join in and enjoy the celebrations.

"Long weekends such as this can, however, be isolating for some people – especially the elderly and more vulnerable, who may find it harder to get out and take part. Please do keep them in mind – even dropping by to say hello can make a big difference when someone is feeling alone or left out."

Oxfordshire County Council helps to run community activities year-round, from coffee groups to gardening clubs.

Karen Fuller, Director of Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: "Loneliness and isolation are difficult at the best of times, but it can often hit home when everyone else appears to be out celebrating.

"If you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour, consider checking in on them and seeing if they need anything, or if appropriate give thought to involving them in any Jubilee celebrations you may be taking part in.

"Community support is important year-round – our Live Well Oxfordshire website has an extensive directory of community groups across the county, as well as information about support groups for people with health conditions."

If you have an urgent but not life-threatening medical need, visit NHS 111 online. The teams are available 24/7 and can help you right away, including directing you to appropriate local healthcare services that are open over the weekend, and giving general healthcare advice.