Minor Injury Units and Urgent Care Centers provide fast medical treatment for non-life-threatening conditions. They are an efficient alternative to the Emergency Department for common injuries, including:
- Limb and Joint Injuries: Sprains, strains, and broken bones.
- Wounds and Skin: Cuts, bruises, abscesses, and wound infections.
- Burns and Bites: Minor burns, scalds, and human or animal bites.
- Head and Face: Minor head injuries, broken noses, and persistent nosebleeds.
- Foreign Objects: Removing items stuck in the eyes or nose.
To help you get the right care in the right place, most areas in Northern Ireland now operate a “Phone First” service. Before travelling to a Minor Injuries Unit, please call the dedicated number for your Trust area.
A healthcare professional will assess your injury over the phone and may give you an appointment time, saving you from waiting in a busy reception area.
Regional “Phone First” Contact Numbers
| Health Trust Area | Hospitals Covered | Phone Number | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast | Royal Victoria / Mater | 028 9615 9444 | Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm |
| Northern | Antrim / Causeway / Mid Ulster | 0300 123 1 123 | Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm |
| South Eastern | Ulster / Lagan Valley / Downe | 028 9151 0110 | 7 Days, 8am–6pm |
| Southern | Craigavon / Daisy Hill / South Tyrone | 0300 123 3 111 | Mon–Fri, 9am–9pm |
| Western | Altnagelvin / South West Acute / Omagh | 0300 020 6000 | 7 Days, 8am–Midnight |
Phone First does not replace 999 – it is for those patients considering attending an emergency department with a non-life-threatening issue. For all emergencies that are life threatening, always call 999 immediately.
Finding your Nearest Unit
If you aren’t sure which Trust area you belong to, or if you are visiting Northern Ireland, you can find your nearest facility using the official NI Direct service search:
- Find a Minor Injuries Unit near you (NI Direct)
- Check Live Waiting Times: You can view current estimated wait times for units across NI on the HSCNI Waiting Times Dashboard.
What to bring with you:
- Your Health & Care Number (if known).
- A list of any current medications.
- Details of how the injury happened.