Boots urgent alert for customers who collect repeat prescriptions

Boots has issued a nationwide alert to all its app users , warning them about a potential issue if they take medication. The notification could help millions who depend on specific medicines prescribed by a doctor via a repeat prescription avoid a potentially risky situation. The next bank holiday for most workers in 2026 throughout England, Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland falls on Monday, May 25. Having only recently had a bank holiday on Monday, May 4, some could be caught out when shops and services - such as pharmacies - operate on limited hours later this month. The Boots app, used by more than 8.4 million people, sent out a notification this week, which said: "Remember to order your prescription ahead of the bank holiday". Those who tapped the alert would have been taken to its website, which processes prescriptions. Because of the bank holiday, most UK pharmacies will be operating on reduced hours or will be shut completely. Customers have been given ample warning to request medication in advance so they can avoid the risk of supplies running low during the extended weekend, when services will be affected, reports the Express . Requesting a prescription through Boots can be done entirely online or through its app. Boots handles both NHS and private repeat prescriptions. Sign Up: Go to the Boots Prescription Support page or open the Boots app and sign in using your NHS login. Select a Boots Pharmacy: Select Boots as your chosen pharmacy. Boots will automatically link to your GP record and see your repeat medication list. Order your medication: Simply tick the items you need and place your order. Collect or Deliver: Choose to pick up your order at your local Boots Store. Some patients can have it delivered for free (England only). If you look after a family member or friend, you can (with their permission) oversee their prescriptions from one 'family' account. Once signed in to the Boots app, add the new patient and choose their GP. You can request their prescription items when they are due, collect them on their behalf, or arrange delivery to yourself or directly to them. Boots does not offer delivery in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. This is because the centralised Boots Prescriptions Plus service is directly tied to the NHS Electronic Prescription Service (EPS), which operates only in England. Healthcare, including pharmacy contracts and prescription fee structures, is a devolved responsibility outside of England. The NHS website advises that if you have used up your prescribed medication and need an urgent supply, there are several options available, including out-of-hours services. It says: "If you get your medicine with a repeat prescription, you should usually allow five working days to request your prescription and get your medicine." Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, people should aim to submit their prescription requests at least a week in advance. Monday, May 18, is a week away from the bank holiday. The NHS adds: "When this is not possible, and you've completely run out, you can use the 111 online emergency prescription service. They'll ask some questions, including where you are and when you are due to take your medicine, so they can suggest the best way to get it." The 111 service operates around the clock, including bank holidays. Should you be unable to reach a pharmacy or 111, head to your nearest urgent treatment centre where a healthcare professional will be able to assist you following a consultation.