NHS · free consultation
Pharmacy First: NHS treatment without a GP appointment.
NHS Pharmacy First lets our pharmacists assess and, where appropriate, treat seven common conditions, including sore throats, sinusitis, earache and urinary tract infections, without a GP appointment. The consultation is free on the NHS; if you need medicine, the usual prescription charge applies unless you're exempt. Pop in or book.
Updated October 2026
NHSPharmacy First
Seen today by a pharmacist, without waiting for a GP.
The seven conditions
What we can treat on the NHS.
Age limits apply. If you're outside them, we'll still advise you and tell you where to go.
How it works
Three steps, no GP appointment.
- 01
Pop in or book
Come in during opening hours or book online. Your GP surgery or NHS 111 can also refer you to us.
- 02
Private consultation
A pharmacist asks about your symptoms in our consultation room and may examine you.
- 03
Treatment or advice
If you need it, we can supply treatment, including some prescription-only medicines. If not, we'll advise you or refer you on.
Opening hours
When to come in.
Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm. We're closed on Sundays and bank holidays.
- Monday
- 09:00 – 18:00
- Tuesday
- 09:00 – 18:00
- Wednesday
- 09:00 – 18:00
- Thursday
- 09:00 – 18:00
- Friday
- 09:00 – 18:00
- Saturday
- 09:00 – 17:00
- Sunday
- Closed
Good to know
Questions, answered.
Is Pharmacy First free?
The consultation is free on the NHS. If you're given medicine, the usual NHS prescription charge applies unless you're exempt, for example if you're under 16 or 60 and over.
Do I need a GP appointment or referral?
No. You can come straight to us or book online. Your GP surgery or NHS 111 may also refer you here.
What conditions can you treat?
Sinusitis (12 and over), sore throat (5 and over), earache (1 to 17), infected insect bites (1 and over), impetigo (1 and over), shingles (18 and over), and urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64.
Can a pharmacist give me antibiotics?
Yes, if they're clinically needed for one of the seven conditions. Pharmacists follow NHS guidance, so many sore throats and sinus infections are treated without antibiotics.
What if I'm outside the age range?
We can still give you advice and recommend treatments you can buy, but you may need to see your GP if you need a prescription-only medicine.
Can everyone use Pharmacy First?
Most people can. Some, for example if you're pregnant, have a weakened immune system or keep getting the same infection, may need to see a GP instead. Your pharmacist will check.
Will my GP know about my consultation?
Yes. We send a record of your consultation to your GP practice so your notes stay up to date.
Can I book online?
Yes. Book a Pharmacy First appointment online, call 01256 322973, or pop in during opening hours.
Are you open on Saturdays?
Yes, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm. We're closed on Sundays and bank holidays.
Appointments
Feeling unwell? Come to us first.
Free NHS consultation · No GP appointment needed · Open Mon–Sat
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