Doctors in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) are calling on residents to 'help us help you' at a time of heightened pressure for local healthcare services, by using the NHS wisely and following national guidance on social distancing.
Although Bristol and North Somerset move to Tier 2 from Saturday (December 19) morning, health and care leaders are reminding residents to stay alert to the threat of Coronavirus, and to contact 111 first if they have urgent medical needs.
Local GP and Medical Director at Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG Dr Peter Brindle said: "Many people in our area will be looking forward to this change to Tier 2 status from Saturday but it's important we don't let our guard down.
"Coronavirus remains a significant threat in BNSSG as elsewhere, and with winter well and truly here, services are under significant pressure and working very hard to care for both Covid and non-Covid patients.
"Our health and care staff, in hospitals, GP practices, social care and community services, are doing a fantastic job of making sure that people get the care they need.
"And the public can play their part and help our staff do their job, by sticking to the government guidance on social distancing this weekend and continuing to contact 111 first if they have urgent medical concerns."
Detailed government guidance on actions we can all take to prevent the spread of Coronavirus is available at gov.uk/coronavirus, including the three simple steps of washing hands regularly, wearing a face covering in enclosed spaces and staying at least 2 metres apart from others, or 1 metre with a face covering.