The NHS has urged people in Wiltshire to help ease pressure on the service this new year after an “exceptionally busy Christmas weekend.”

The Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board say that staff on the frontline in the area’s three major hospitals and at urgent treatment centres have faced a consistently high demand for care during the festive period.

Call handlers at the region’s NHS 111 service also experienced near record demand for the service over the bank holiday weekend.

NHS staff have now thanked the public for their cooperation this Christmas and are urging people to play their part in the build up to the new year by using the correct health services, enjoying the festive season sensibly and practising effective self-care where possible.

This includes following advice from NHS 111, resting at home or visiting a pharmacy.

Gill May, the chief nurse for the region’s ICB, said: “While most people continue to enjoy the festivities, the doors to the NHS will remain open, and we once again ask all those living in Bath and northeast Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire to show their support at this busy time.

“Although it may seem insignificant, the small actions that all families can take, such as choosing the right service and helping to get a loved one home from hospital, really do make a difference.

“On behalf of the local NHS, I’d like to thank the public for their continued support, cooperation and good nature throughout 2022, and wish everyone nothing but the best for the coming new year.”

Mrs May also paid tribute to the NHS staff who have spent the festive season away from their families caring for the people of Wiltshire.

She added: “We always expect the days before, during and after Christmas to be very busy, and this year has been no exception.

“Our dedicated teams have worked flat out over the last couple of days to make sure that care could be given to all those who need it, and I’d like to thank them for all they have done and continue to do.”

People can get bespoke healthcare advice and information based on their symptoms by using NHS 111 online or the NHS website.

Speedy healthcare advice can also be provided at community pharmacies, with most not requiring appointments, although patients should check a site’s Christmas opening times beforehand.