Get The Right Care In The Right Place This Early May Bank Holiday

Many pharmacies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be open over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday 2 May – Monday 4 May 2026), ready to help with common conditions.

Pharmacies can now treat a range of minor illnesses under the Pharmacy First scheme, including shingles, sore throats, earache, sinusitis, infected insect bites, impetigo and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and can also prescribe medication where appropriate.

Opening times may vary, so people are advised to check with their local pharmacy before attending.

Neil Hardy, Chief Pharmacist at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, says pharmacy teams are available over the weekend to offer advice, medicines and treatment, and can also direct patients to further care if needed.

He also urges people to ensure they have enough repeat medication, adding that emergency supplies can be requested via 111.nhs.uk or through a community pharmacy.

Urgent Treatment Centres in Andover, Gosport, Lymington, Petersfield, Portsmouth, Southampton and on the Isle of Wight will also be open for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, with waiting times often shorter than A&E.

If unsure where to go, NHS 111 is available online 24/7 at 111.nhs.uk, including access to mental health support.

Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call 999 or attend A&E.

The list of opening hours can be viewed below: