A SOUTHAMPTON mum has praised the 111 service for its help when her daughter was unwell.

Mum-of-one Kayleigh Moore is encouraging more parents to use the service to save unnecessary long waits at the hospital.

Kayleigh called 111 when her daughter Hazel suddenly became unwell.

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She said: "I phoned 111 for my daughter when she was quite young and I found the team really reassuring.

"After speaking to someone initially they got a member of the pediatric nursing team to phone me back which I found really helpful because they can also do video consultations.

"When you can't speak to your GP and you really do need some reassurance, it does save you going to hospital and waiting a long time, especially if you don't need to be there."

Ahead of winter, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (HIOWICB) is reminding people of ways they can keep on top of self-care.

This includes knowing what steps you can take to treat minor illnesses at home, when to visit a pharmacy or visit NHS 111 online, or when you need an urgent treatment centre or emergency department.

HIOWICB is also encouraging everyone to make changes to their lifestyle to improve their physical and mental well-being.

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This includes eating a well-balanced diet, being active, or quitting smoking.

Pharmacies can also offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines and treatments for a range of minor health concerns, such as coughs, colds or flu-like symptoms, stomach aches, earaches, sickness and diarrhoea, rashes, allergies, aches and pains.

Dr Tim Cooper, deputy chief medical officer for primary and local care, said: "As ever, your NHS is here for you.

"However, there are steps you can also take to help stay fit and well, especially ahead of the colder winter months.

"Simple things like eating well, getting vaccinated and regular exercise can play an important part in looking after yourself.

"Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet as well as knowing which service to access if you need medical support can also help you get the most appropriate treatment quickly.

“We know this winter is going to be hard for many people and knowing where you are able to access help and support on the cost of living crisis is also important for people’s well-being.

"All our local authority partners have help and support available on their websites and in community settings such as libraries.”

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