999 is for life-threatening emergencies like serious road traffic accidents, strokes and heart attacks.
Use NHS 111 if you think you need urgent medical help and you are not sure whether to call 999.
NHS 111 can also check your symptoms and tell you what to do next.
NHS 111 can dispatch an ambulance if their clinical assessment determines you need one.
Use 111 Online, call 111, or use the NHS App to get started.
You should only call 999 if it's a life-threatening emergency.
Calling 999 does not always mean an ambulance will be sent.
You might be told it’s safe for you to make your own way to A&E, or to be seen elsewhere.
When you call 999, an operator will ask you which emergency service you need.
In a medical emergency, ask for the ambulance service and you will be put through to one of our emergency call handlers.
Calling 999 in an emergency can be stressful, so it’s good to know what to expect.
You can call an ambulance by using 999 or 112.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired you can contact us by texting from your mobile. To use the text service, you must register your mobile phone on the emergencySMS website.
You can also use the BSL 999 App for a video call.
If English is not your first language, you can still call 999.
Interpreters are available over the phone in multiple languages and can support you in getting the help you need. Please let the call handler know which language you require. This will not delay your care. It will help ensure you receive the best possible outcome for your concern.
