Free 111 NHS helpline finally available in North Wales

The long-awaited free NHS 111 helpline has finally been made available in North Wales.

The non-emergency service, which operates 24 hours a day, was first piloted in Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea in 2016.

After the scheme was deemed a success, it was later announced in 2018 that it would be introduced across Wales.

However, there have been a number of delays to the helpline’s arrival in the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area.

After much waiting, from today people in the region will be able to dial 111 to get non-urgent medical advice and access to their out of hours service.

Advice is also available online at www.111.wales.nhs.uk.

The service has now been rolled out to all health board areas of Wales, except Cardiff and Vale, which is expected to come online later this financial year.

The move has been welcomed by Health Minister Eluned Morgan, who said: “I am delighted the free 111 number will now be available across North Wales and the whole of Wales will be covered by April 2022.

“The 111 service will support people to receive the most appropriate services for their needs, and reduce the pressure on our 999 service.

“When the NHS is experiencing high demand the service is particularly useful in ensuring people are directed to the most appropriate services.

“Supported by the 111 website, this easy to remember free phone service will make it easier for anyone to access the support they need.”