Hospital services across South West London are currently very busy due to extreme heat, pollution and pollen levels. We are seeing high numbers of people coming in with breathing difficulties and older people who are dehydrated.

If you, or your child, has asthma or other respiratory conditions – keep taking your regular preventer inhaler and stay indoors wherever possible, keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. If you do need to go outside, shower and change your clothes to wash pollen off.

Older people are particularly at risk of becoming unwell during a heatwave. Drinking water and staying out of the sun are most important for staying well – more tips are below.

The NHS is still here for people who need care. If you need medical help or advice, please go to 111.nhs.uk first, unless it is a life-threatening emergency in which case, call 999.