NHS 111 is a new service being introduced across London to make it easier to access local NHS healthcare services. NHS 111 is free to call and is a fast and easy way to get the right help whatever your need, wherever you are, and whatever the time.

In London, NHS 111 is currently only available in the London Boroughs of Croydon and Hillingdon.

When to use it?

You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it's not a life-threatening situation.

You should call 111 if:

• it's not a 999 emergency
• you think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service
• you don't think it can wait for an appointment with your GP, or
• you don't know who to call for medical help

For less urgent health needs you should still contact your GP in the usual way.

For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, continue to call 999.

How does it work?

The service is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses, who will ask you questions to assess your symptoms, give you the healthcare advice you need and direct you to the right local service as quickly as possible. This can include an out-of-hours doctor, walk-in centre or urgent care centre, community nurses, emergency dentist or late-opening chemist.

When you call 111, you will be assessed straight away using the NHS Pathways clinical assessment tool. If you need an ambulance, one will be sent just as quickly as if you had dialled 999. For any other health problems, the NHS 111 call advisers will be able to direct you to the service that is best able to meet your needs. If a health professional has given you a specific telephone number to call when you are concerned about your condition, please continue to use that number.

The line will be staffed round the clock, 365 days a year. Calls from landlines and mobile phones are free.

If you would like to hear more about the plans for the NHS 111 service in London please email 111@london.nhs.uk.