Useful links
These are the organisations people ask us about most often. All of them cover the Western Isles, either from here or nationally.
For anything local, the directory on this site has more detail. Use these when you want national advice, or a helpline you can phone today.
If the organisation you need is not here, the services directory on this site holds over four hundred local entries. Tell us if something is missing and we will add it.
NHS Western Isles
NHS Western Isles runs the hospitals, clinics and community teams across the islands, and provides a complete and comprehensive range of healthcare services to those living and working within the Western Isles.
NHS Western Isles
A wealth of information can be found on the NHS Western Isles website, including each of its healthcare services, and access links to remote consultations, such as Near Me/Attend Anywhere.
Getting the Right Care for You
Choosing the right option for your condition is important. The NHS Western Isles Right Care Right Place website offers valuable information on self-care, as well as guidance on seeking help from the most suitable healthcare practitioner for your condition, e.g. your GP, dentist, optometrist, pharmacist, NHS 24 and 999.
It also offers where to get help for addictions, support for mental health issues, seeking emergency social work and when to use the Virtual Emergency Department. To view click here.
Home Care
The NHS Western Isles Home Care section offers information on helping keep individuals well and safe in their own home. This includes guidance on the following services:
- Faire 24-hour telecare service
- Support for Unpaid Carers
- Care Information Scotland
- Money/Benefits and financial advice
- Blue Badge Scheme
- Self-Directed Support
- Power of Attorney (living will).
To view the Home Care section click here.
Additional Health Advice
- NHS Inform is Scotland’s national health information service.
- NHS 24, on 111, is for urgent health advice when your GP surgery is closed.
Support and advice
- Age Scotland runs a free helpline for older people on 0800 12 44 222.
- Alzheimer Scotland has a Dementia Resource Centre in Stornoway and a 24 hour helpline.
- Western Isles Community Care Forum supports unpaid carers across the islands.
- Citizens Advice gives free, confidential advice on benefits, debt and housing.