All NHS services are under severe pressure at the moment, as we look after increasing numbers of patients who are sick with covid-19 in the community, and other deteriorating conditions too.

We are also delivering the huge and vitally important covid-19 vaccination programme. Please do not contact us regarding a vaccine, we will contact you.

So that we can focus on these really important issues, we will understandably be prioritising urgent care.

This means that when you contact us, we may have an initial conversation with you to understand how urgent your health needs are.

If you have an issue that is not urgent, you may need to wait longer than usual until your problem or concern can be dealt with. You may be asked to rebook at a later date, or at a safer time (e.g. attending for a non-urgent blood test).

Do please make sure that you continue to get in touch with us if you need to. This is particularly important if:

• your problem is genuinely urgent

• you have a long term condition that is getting worse

• you are worried about symptoms that might indicate cancer

Please also remember you can call NHS 111 for urgent concerns, and 999 for serious emergencies.  Your local pharmacist can also help with minor complaints too.

– For adults with mental health problems including depression and anxiety, you can refer yourself directly to the local wellbeing service, via 0300 300 0055.

-If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, call the First Response Service by calling 111 and select option 2 (in Wisbech call 111, select option 1 and ask to be put through to the First Response Service).

– A local CCG has produced an excellent childhood illnesses leaflet free to download here, full of advice and information for parents and carers of young children:

– The Cambridgeshire County Council has a range of support and information to help in times of urgent need: telephone 0345 045 5202 8am-6pm weekdays 9am-1pm Saturdays. Outside office hours if someone is in danger telephone 01733 234724. In an emergency, call 999. Also see www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/adults.

Thank you very much for helping us all manage under these very difficult circumstances

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