Don't forget - Bridport Hospital’s minor injuries unit will remain closed for the next two weekends as it continues to struggle with staffing pressures.

It means anyone who requires urgent face-to-face treatment will be given an appoint at one of Dorset’s other units, the nearest being Weymouth.

As reported last week, problems with staff sickness and unfilled vacancies has forced Dorset HealthCare to temporarily shut the unit on those Saturdays and Sundays – spanning August 20 to September 3 – though it will remain open as normal on weekdays.

It comes after the unit was forced to close at the beginning of the month due to Covid-related staff absences.

The trust advises local people with any injuries or ailments which require urgent attention to visit 111.nhs.uk or call NHS 111 in the first instance. If face-to-face treatment is required, they will be given an appointment at one of Dorset’s other MIUs.

The unit is expected to return to its regular seven-day opening hours in early September.

Anyone contacting 111 will be assessed, and either given expert advice or directed to an appropriate NHS point of care. Often problems can be dealt with by pharmacists or a GP. If urgent face-to-face treatment is required during those three weekends, an appointment will be made at one of Dorset’s other units: Weymouth Hospital Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) – open 8am-8pm; Swanage Hospital – 8am-8pm; Westminster Memorial Hospital (Shaftesbury) –10am-4pm; Victoria Hospital (Wimborne) – 8am-8pm; Yeatman Hospital (Sherborne) – 10am-4pm (Sundays).

This will help people avoid a long wait at one of the county’s Emergency Departments.

If a person’s condition is life-threatening, you should call 999 without delay.