If you’re visiting the UK, knowing the right phone numbers in an emergency (or even just when something goes wrong) can make a huge difference. The system is straightforward once you understand it—but it’s not always obvious if you’re used to different numbers in other countries.
This guide covers the key UK phone numbers every traveller should save before they arrive, including when to use each one.
If you are travelling in the UK, my guide to visiting the United Kingdom with autistic children is a great place to start.
Emergency Services
Dial 999 or 112 for emergencies
These are the UK’s main emergency numbers. Both connect you to the same services:
- Police
- Ambulance
- Fire and Rescue
- Coastguard
Use this number if:
- Someone is seriously injured or unconscious
- A crime is happening right now
- There is immediate danger (fire, accident, threat)
112 is the European standard emergency number and works the same as 999 in the UK—so if your phone automatically uses it, that’s fine.
Important: Only use these numbers in genuine emergencies. Misuse can delay help for someone who really needs it.
NHS Medical Help
Dial 111 for urgent medical advice (non-life-threatening)
The NHS 111 service is one of the most useful numbers for travellers.
Use it if:
- You need medical help but it’s not an emergency
- You’re unsure whether to go to A&E
- You need out-of-hours GP advice
- You run out of medication
You’ll speak to trained advisors (and sometimes nurses or clinicians) who can:
- Give advice
- Book appointments
- Direct you to the nearest service
It’s free to call and available 24/7.
Alternatively, you can try to see a General Practitioner while in the UK.
Police (Non-Emergency)
Dial 101 for non-urgent police matters
Use this number when you need the police, but it’s not an emergency, such as:
- Reporting a stolen item after the fact
- Noise complaints
- Minor road traffic incidents
- Giving information about a crime
If a situation becomes urgent, switch to 999 immediately.
Mental Health Support
Dial 116 123 to contact Samaritans
This free helpline is available 24/7 for anyone who needs emotional support.
You don’t have to be in crisis to call. It’s there if you:
- Feel overwhelmed or anxious
- Need someone to talk to
- Are struggling while travelling
They also offer email and chat support if calling isn’t comfortable.
NHS Dentist Helplines
If you have a dental emergency:
- Call 111
- They can direct you to urgent dental care
This is especially useful if you’re not registered with a UK dentist.
Pharmacy Advice
Many UK pharmacies (chemists) can help with:
- Minor illnesses
- Over-the-counter medication
- Emergency contraception
- Advice on prescriptions
Look for major chains like Boots or Superdrug, or independent chemists.
Gas Emergency
Call 0800 111 999 if you smell gas
This connects you to the National Gas Emergency Service.
Signs include:
- Smell of gas
- Hissing sounds near pipes
- Dead plants near gas lines
Leave the area immediately before calling if it’s unsafe.
Power Cuts
Dial 105 to report a power cut
This free number connects you to your local electricity network operator.
Useful if:
- Your accommodation loses power
- You’re unsure whether it’s a wider outage
Coastguard & Sea Emergencies
Covered under 999 or 112
If you’re at the coast and someone is in danger in the water, ask for the Coastguard when connected.
Directory Enquiries
Directory enquiry services (e.g. 118 118) can help you find phone numbers – but they are very expensive, so it’s usually better to search online instead.
Mobile Phones and Coverage Tips
- UK SIM cards and eSIMs will work with all of these numbers
- Emergency calls (999/112) can often be made without signal or credit
- Save key numbers in your phone before travelling
When I travel I use Trip.com eSIMs for affordable local coverage and Airalo when travelling across multiple countries. If you would like to try Airalo, you can use my referral code (NATASH7173) for £2.50 off your first eSIM.
Quick Reference: UK Emergency Numbers
- 999 / 112 – Emergency services
- 111 – NHS urgent medical help
- 101 – Police (non-emergency)
- 116 123 – Samaritans
- 105 – Power cuts
- 0800 111 999 – Gas emergency
Tips For Travellers
Don’t overthink this – but don’t ignore it either. When something goes wrong abroad, the stress isn’t just the situation – it’s not knowing what to do next.
Save these numbers before your trip. It takes 2 minutes, and it removes a huge layer of uncertainty if you ever need help.
If you’re travelling with children, medical needs, or disabilities, having these ready isn’t optional – it’s part of your safety plan.