Looking after yourself
From useful telephone numbers to how to register with a GP, this section points clients in the right direction for help and gives step-by-step advice on how to access specific health services.
For any further help or information contact the Homeless Health Service on 0117 989 2450
Eye Health
An optician visits the Compass Centre once a month. Simply put your name on the list by visiting reception or by calling 0117 989 2450.
If you need emergency eye care, then visit the Bristol Eye Hospital, open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday at Lower Maudlin Street, Bristol BS1 2LX. Tel: 0117 928 4713.
NHS Dentist
Compass Health staff are happy to help you find a nearby NHS dentist. You can also look on the NHS Choices website. Cost for assessment and treatment is free if you are in receipt of benefits – you may be asked to produce proof of this.
Emergency Dental Care
For pain, trauma or infections, Compass Health staff are on hand to help you get emergency dental care. Alternatively you can also call NHS 111, you will be assessed over the phone and be directed to the most approriate local service.
How to Register with a GP
If You Are Housed
Compass Health staff can help you to locate and register with a local GP. When you register, you will usually be asked to provide two piece of identification (ID) and one must show your current address. Reception staff may ask you for a photo ID. This is not a regulatory requirement so offer an alternative ID if you can and it helps if you know the name and address of your previous GP. If you have a key worker, they can help you provide suitable documentation.
If you are Homeless
You are still entitled to healthcare, even if you do not have a permanent address. At Compass Health you can see a doctor or nurse. We will also link you into services to help with your housing. Also, Broadmead Medical Centre (above Boots) offers walk in appointments to see a GP or Nurse.
Accident & Emergency – A & E Departments
A&E assesses and treats patients with serious injuries or illnesses. A&E aims to see, diagnose and treat 95% of people within four hours of arrival and are open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
You should visit A&E or call 999 for emergencies such as:
– loss of consciousness
– pain not relieved by simple analgesia (pain relief medication)
– acute, confused state
– persistent, severe chest pain
– breathing difficulties.
An A&E doctor or nurse will assess your condition and decide on further action. You usually have to wait before you are seen, particularly on Friday or Saturday.
Your nearest A&E departments are:
– Bristol Royal Infirmary, Upper Maudlin Street, Bristol, Avon BS2 8BJ. Tel: 0117 923 0000
– A&E Southmead Hospital, Southmead rd, Bristol. BS10 5NB. Tel: 0117 950 5050
Minor Injuries Unit
For the treatment of less serious injuries, a MIU is usually nurse-led and no appointment is needed. Waiting times are likely to be shorter than A&E and the unit is open from 9am to 8pm, every day of the year.
Your nearest Minor Injuries Unit is at Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Bristol BS10 5NB. Tel: 0117 959 5100
NHS Walk-in Centres
Available to everyone and managed by a nurse, no appointment is necessary for NHS Walk-in Centres and Centres are open Monday to Saturday, from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm. Sundays and Bank Holidays from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm.
NHS Walk-in Centres deal with minor illnesses and injuries. These include:
– infection of skin and rashes
– fractures and lacerations
– emergency contraception and advice
– stomach upsets
– cuts and bruises
– burns and sprains
– treatment of minor infections
Your nearest NHS Walk-in Centres are:
Bristol City Walk-in Centre has now moved to Broadmead Medical Centre. 59 Broadmead, Bristol, BS1 3EA.
Tel: 0117 954 9828
Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm
Walk in appointments to see a nurse are available from 8am to 4pm Monday to Saturday. From 4pm onwards we have bookable appointments which need to be booked in person at the Walk-in Centre.
Sunday and bank holidays, except Easter Sunday and Christmas Day, 11am to 5pm
Walk in appointments to see a nurse are available from 11am to 3.30pm on Sundays. From 3.30pm onwards we have bookable appointments which need to be booked in person at the Walk-in Centre.
Boots Broadmead
South Bristol Walk-in Centre has now moved to the South Bristol NHS Community Hospital, Urgent Care Centre, Hengrove Promenade, Hengrove Park, Whitchurch Lane, Bristol, BS14 0DE
Tel: 0117 342 9692
Open 8am until 8pm every day
South Bristol Community Hospital
Sexual Health
Compass Health staff are happy to advise you regarding sexual health and contraception.
Bristol Sexual Health Centre
Offers a range of confidential services including:
– testing, advice and free treatment for sexually transmitted infections
– all types of contraception, including emergency contraception and free condoms
– Hepatitis B vaccinations for those who have, or will be at risk
– HIV testing and referral as needed
– PEPSE (Post Exposure Prophylaxis following sexual exposure to HIV)
– consultation for people who’ve been sexually assaulted
– telephone advice for public and professionals
– chlamydia screening for under 25s
You can find the Bristol Sexual Health Centre at: Central Health Clinic, Tower Hill, Bristol BS2 0JD. Tel: 0117 342 6900
The Bridge – Sexual Assault Referral Centre
An integrated, comprehensive sexual assault support service for men, women and children in the Avon and Somerset area. Specially trained, experienced professional can provide you with the following:
– sexual health information
– referral services
– information about reporting to the police and judicial processes
– forensic medical facilities
– counselling
– post-sexual assault follow-up
– support through the criminal justice system
– practical support
– referrals to other community services
You can find The Bridge, Sexual Assault Referral Centre at 2nd Floor, Central Health Clinic, Tower Hill, Bristol BS2 0JD. Tel: 0117 342 6999
Pregnancy Advisory Service
Consultation service for Bristol women with unplanned or unwanted pregnancy and advice about abortion. Offers:
– pregnancy testing
– counselling
– advice
– referrals for termination
You can find the Pregnancy Advisory Service at Central Health Clinic, Tower Hill, Bristol BS2 0JD. Tel: 0117 927 6362