Waiting for NHS care can be challenging, and it’s completely normal to feel worried or unsure about what to expect. Your care remains a priority for us so this information is here to support you. It includes practical guidance, self-care advice, and details on where to find help if your symptoms change or you feel you’re struggling to cope.
Support and self-management advice
The resources below offer practical support to help you manage symptoms, maintain your wellbeing, and stay active while you wait for your appointment. This includes advice on pain management, exercise, healthy lifestyle choices, and condition-specific guidance.
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust patient information leaflets
Trusted information to support conversations with your doctor, nurse, or healthcare team.
My Planned Care
Advice and support to help you prepare for your hospital consultation, treatment, or surgery, including information about waiting times and local services.
Healthy living
Guidance on healthy eating, maintaining a healthy weight, keeping active, stopping smoking, and reducing alcohol intake.
Better health
Free tools and support to help you make positive lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, getting active, drinking less alcohol, or quitting smoking.
getUBetter
A digital self-management platform for common musculoskeletal conditions and women’s pelvic health.
Birmingham Connect to Support
An online guide offering information, advice, and a community directory for Birmingham residents.
Solihull Community Advice hubs
Advice on care, benefits, housing, and more, available at hubs in Chelmsley Wood and Solihull town centre.
Your appointment
When your appointment is scheduled, please make every effort to attend and allow plenty of time for travel, particularly if arriving by car, as our car parks can be very busy.
If you cannot attend, please contact us as soon as possible using the details in your appointment letter. This allows us to offer the appointment to another patient who is waiting. We will do our best to arrange a new appointment for you promptly.
Occasionally, we may need to cancel appointments due to unforeseen circumstances, such as staff sickness or equipment issues. If this happens, we will contact you as soon as possible and rearrange your appointment at the earliest opportunity.
If your condition becomes unmanageable
If your condition becomes difficult to manage and you need immediate advice, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or dial 999 in an emergency.
You should only attend the emergency department, or call 999, if you or someone you are with has a serious or life-threatening injury or illness, such as:
- loss of consciousness
- severe chest pain
- severe bleeding
- a severe burn or scald
- a severe allergic reaction
- difficulty breathing
- a suspected broken bone
Alternatives to the emergency department
Our emergency departments can be very busy. To help ensure you receive the right care in the right place, please explore local alternatives across Birmingham and Solihull.
Last reviewed: 14 April 2026