AS CHRISTMAS leftovers are packed away and New Year plans take shape, the NHS is gearing up for one of its busiest weeks of the year.

Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is asking the public to help by choosing “the right care at the right time”.

After an intense Christmas weekend, demand is expected to rise sharply in the days ahead as GP practices and community pharmacies reopen and people seek the help they may have put off over the festive break.

Far from easing off, the period between Christmas and New Year is consistently one of the most pressured times for frontline health services.

ICB deputy chief medical officer Dr Barry Coakley said: “We know there is a reluctance among some people to access care on bank holidays, for fearing of having to wait and services being much busier than usual.

“However, what we have seen in previous years is that our activity tends to peak in the days after Christmas, as people incorrectly assume things to be quietening down and getting back to normal.

“Our message to anyone who is unsure about whether to seek help is to first get advice from NHS 111, which is available online or over the phone.

“By using 111, people can receive expert help and advice – specific to their symptoms – in real time, while leaving urgent and emergency care services free for those most in need of rapid support and assistance.

“At this time of year, choosing the right service at the right time really does have the ability to make a tangible difference to both patients and staff.”

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day and can direct people to face-to-face care when needed.

Community pharmacies remain open throughout the week between Christmas and New Year with some operating on New Year’s Day to support minor illnesses and injuries.

With flu continuing to circulate, health leaders urge anyone with symptoms to stay at home, rest and manage their illness with over-the-counter remedies.

Health officials say small choices, from checking NHS 111 first to using local pharmacies, can collectively make a big difference.