The NHS has issued an alert to anyone who regularly takes prescribed medication. A post on X, formerly Twitter, from the official NHS account says: "With the bank holiday approaching, make sure you order your repeat prescription in advance. Don't get caught out this bank holiday weekend. Order your repeat prescriptions in good time."
How to order a repeat prescription
The NHS website clarifies that those with a repeat prescription can order their medicine without having to see a doctor each time. It goes on to say: "It's important to request the prescription up to five working days before you need your medicine. You might be able to ask your pharmacy directly for your medicine if your GP has set this up (repeat dispensing). If not, you'll need to order your medicines through a repeat prescription from your GP surgery."
Bank holiday closures
Many GP surgeries will be closed on Monday, May 4, as it's the May Day bank holiday. It is therefore crucial to ensure you request any repeat prescriptions as soon as possible, reports the Mirror.
A repeat prescription can be ordered by logging into the NHS App or the NHS website, using other online services or apps, or by contacting your GP surgery. You can choose a high street pharmacy to collect your prescription from, or some may offer a delivery service.
Upcoming bank holidays in 2026
In 2026, there are eight bank holidays in England and Wales, with 9 or 10 in Scotland and Northern Ireland respectively. There are two in May, with the Spring Bank Holiday coming up on Monday, May 25, so make a note on your calendar.
