Emergency Services in Hampstead: What to Know

Emergencies are, by definition, unexpected. Here's the information you should know before you need it.

999 — When to Call

Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies only: chest pains, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, major trauma, house fire, or violent crime in progress. For London, 999 connects to Metropolitan Police, London Ambulance Service, or London Fire Brigade depending on your response. Give your address clearly — say the postcode (NW3) and a nearby landmark if possible.

NHS 111 — Medical Non-Emergencies

For urgent medical concerns that are not life-threatening, call 111 (free, 24/7). The 111 service can: give clinical advice, direct you to the most appropriate care, book you an emergency GP appointment or Urgent Treatment Centre slot, and send an ambulance if the assessment indicates it's needed. For most situations that feel urgent but not immediately dangerous, 111 is the right first call — faster and more appropriate than A&E for many presentations.

The Royal Free A&E

The nearest emergency department is at the Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street NW3 2QG. Open 24/7. Nearest tube: Belsize Park. For non-life-threatening conditions, ask about the Urgent Treatment Centre within the same building — often faster.

Police — Hampstead Station

Hampstead Police Station on Rosslyn Hill is a local police point. For non-emergency policing matters (including reporting crimes that have already occurred), call 101 or report online at met.police.uk. For crime in progress, always call 999.

Dental Emergencies

For dental emergencies outside surgery hours, call NHS 111 — they maintain a list of emergency dental services and can make referrals. Several dentists on Hampstead High Street offer emergency same-day appointments for existing patients; call your own practice first.

Mental Health Crisis

Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7). Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Team (Camden): 020 3317 6333. Shout text service: text SHOUT to 85258. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.