Feeling unwell? Pop in first
With NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess and treat seven common conditions, usually the same day, with no GP appointment. It’s free if you don’t pay for prescriptions.
- NHS
- No appointment
- Same day
no GP appointment needed
What we can treat today
Age limits are set by the NHS. If you’re outside them, we’ll tell you the best place to go.
- Sinusitisage 12 and over
- Sore throatage 5 and over
- Earacheage 1 to 17
- Infected insect biteage 1 and over
- Impetigoage 1 and over
- Shinglesage 18 and over
- Urinary tract infectionwomen aged 16 to 64
How it works
- 1Walk in or call ahead
Monday to Friday 9am to 6:30pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm. No appointment needed. Calling first means we can check the pharmacist is free.
- 2A private chat
Our pharmacist asks about your symptoms in our private consultation room, and may check your ears, throat or skin.
- 3Treated today
If you need prescription medicine, we can supply it there and then. If not, we’ll give advice or send you to the right service.
Free if you don’t pay for prescriptions. Otherwise, the standard NHS prescription charge for any medicine supplied.
Call 999 in an emergency. For urgent advice when we’re closed, call NHS 111 or go to 111.nhs.uk.
Something that isn’t on the list?
Our independent prescribing pharmacist can see you privately for many other minor conditions, often the same day. Read about private prescribing.
Common questions
Do I need an appointment for Pharmacy First?
No. Walk in during opening hours. You can call 0116 276 7914 first to check the pharmacist is free.
How much does Pharmacy First cost?
It’s free if you don’t pay for prescriptions. Otherwise you pay the standard NHS prescription charge for any medicine supplied.
Can children use Pharmacy First?
Yes, for some conditions: earache from age 1 to 17, impetigo and infected insect bites from age 1, and sore throat from age 5.
What if my condition isn’t covered?
The pharmacist will advise you or tell you where to go. Our independent prescribing pharmacist can also see you privately for many other minor conditions.
Page last reviewed 7 November 2026 by Nabeel Amirudin (GPhC 2087856), superintendent pharmacist. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Ask our pharmacist about your own situation.