Boots issues alert to customers with repeat prescriptions
High street chain issues warning to all customers ahead of bank holiday (Image: Getty)
Boots has issued a UK-wide warning to all app users, reminding them of something that could be very important. The warning could help millions of people addicted to certain drugs avoid ending up in a potentially dangerous situation.
The next bank holiday for most workers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2026 falls on Monday 25 May. Some people, who only have a bank holiday on Monday 4 May, may experience shops and services such as pharmacies operating on reduced hours.
Boots’ app warning states: “Remember to order your prescription before the bank holiday.” People who clicked on the notification would be directed to: websiteprocessing prescriptions.
Due to the bank holiday, most pharmacies in the UK will be operating on significantly reduced hours or will be closed completely throughout the day. People were notified in advance to order medicines in advance to avoid the risk of running out of medicines over the long weekend when services would be interrupted.
How to order a repeat prescription with Boots
Ordering prescriptions through Boots can be done entirely online or via its app. Boots handles both NHS and private repeat prescriptions.
- Becoming a member: Go to: Boots Prescription Support page or open the Boots app and sign in using your NHS login.
- Choose a Boots Pharmacy: Select Boots as your pharmacy of choice. Boots will automatically connect to your GP record and see your list of recurring medications.
- Order your medications: Tick the products you need and place your order.
- Collect or Deliver: Choose to collect your order from your local Boots Store. Some patients can collect free of charge (UK only).
If you are caring for a family member or friend, you can manage their prescriptions (with their consent) from a single ‘family’ account. Once you log in to the Boots app, add the new patient and select their doctor.
You can order prescription products when they are due, pick them up on their behalf, or arrange for delivery to yourself or directly to them.
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How soon should I order my repeat prescription?
The NHS website says if you’ve run out of prescription medicine and need supplies urgently, there are a number of ways to get emergency supplies outside working hours. It says: “If you are taking your medication with a repeat prescription, you should generally allow five business days to request your prescription and receive your medication.”
Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, people should try to get prescription requests at least a week in advance. Monday, May 18th, one week left until the public holiday.
The NHS adds: “When this is not possible and you are completely drained of energy, 111 online emergency prescription service. “They will ask some questions, such as where you are and when you will take your medicine, so they can recommend the best way to take it.”
The 111 service is available 24/7, including public holidays. If you cannot reach a pharmacy or 111, visit a local urgent care center where you can be seen by a healthcare professional after a consultation.
