Emergency help
You may need to get help if:
- you are concerned about the health of the person you care for
- the person you care for may have put themselves or you in danger
- you are not able to look after the person you care for
Calling 999
You should only call '999' when an immediate response is required and someone is in immediate danger.
The telephone operator will ask which emergency service you require Police, Fire or Ambulance
You will be asked where you are so the service can find you as quickly as possible.
Try to stay calm and tell the operator the situation. You will be given guidance about what to do until help arrives.
Getting advice
NHS Direct operates a 24-hour advice and health information service, providing confidential information on:
- what to do if you or your family are feeling ill
- particular health conditions:
- local healthcare services, such as doctors, dentists or late night opening pharmacies.
- self help and support organisations
You can contact NHS Direct by:
- calling 0845 4647 and talking to an NHS Direct nurse
- calling 0845 606 4647 - the NHS Direct textphone number - if you are deaf or hard of hearing
- you can also go online at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Your own GP
If you do not have the telephone number you can use this link to find your nearest doctor.
Getting support from Oxfordshire County Council
If you need help and advice about social care needs (support to live independently, help in the home or residential care), call the Customer Services at 0845 050 7666. Staff will help you to contact the services you need.
You can also:
- Fax: 01865 854443
- Email: access@oxfordshire.gov.uk
- Write to Oxfordshire County Council, PO Box 221, Kidlington Delivery Office, Oxford OX5 1YD
Hours are: Monday to Thursday, 8.30 am to 5pm; Friday, 8.30 am to 4pm.
Out of hours and bank holidays: Contact the Emergency Duty Team at 0800 833408.
All calls will be taken by an experienced social worker.
Planning for unexpected crises can leave you less stressed.
Other helplines
- Oxfordshire Mind Crisis Line, dealing with mental health services, 7 nights a week, 7pm – 1 am, 01865 252252
- Samaritans has centres in Banbury and Oxford 08457 90 90 90.
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