Healthcare services and Her Majesty the Queen's funeral

The NHS in the North East and North Cumbria is deeply saddened that Her Majesty the Queen has passed away. We will join with our staff, patients and communities in mourning for the Queen's funeral on Monday while working hard to ensure that as many NHS services as possible can continue.

Dr Neil O'Brien, Medical Director for NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "Monday will be a difficult and emotional day for many of us as we pay our respects to Her Majesty, and the NHS will be there to support people who need our care.

"The Queen's funeral on Monday 19 September will be a national bank holiday, and our NHS organisations are working hard to maintain as many services as possible to minimise any impact on patients, and prioritising cancer and urgent activity."

Many NHS services will continue, including Covid-19 and flu vaccine clinics and most hospital appointments. If you have an appointment booked for Monday, please attend unless you have been notified otherwise. Patient transport services will still be available where needed.

While most GP practices will be closed on Monday, urgent healthcare will still be available through www.111.nhs.uk or through normal out-of-hours primary care services.

Patients are reminded to check their supplies of any prescription medications to ensure that they do not run out. If you do run out, please check www.nhs.uk to find a pharmacy which is open on the day.

"We are here for you if you need us, but emergency care services are already very busy," added Dr O'Brien. "If you need healthcare, please use 111 online services or your practice's out of hours service first, and help us keep A&E for people who need it most.

"Monday will be a difficult day for many people, but especially so if you have recently been bereaved. You can find details of helplines, mental health or bereavement support services at www.nhs.uk, www.signpostnenc.co.uk or from local NHS websites.

"Staff and patients in our region's hospitals are invited to observe the national moment of reflection in their own way, whether that be on a ward or in their home or community."

Healthcare on Monday's bank holiday

• Many services are still operating, please attend appointments unless notified.
• If you need urgent care but it's not an emergency, please use www.111.nhs.uk, NHS 111 or your practice's out-of-hours services - keep A&E for people who need it most.
• Check your medicine cabinet so you don't run out of urgent prescription medication - if you do run out, consult a pharmacy.
• If you are affected by recent events, you can find mental health support services at www.nhs.uk, www.signpostnenc.co.uk or local NHS websites. If you are feeling suicidal, phone the Samaritans on 116 123.