Where are you based? I'm in central London and - whilst I agree it has been and could be better - have had no problem getting an appointment. Most of it is app based now, right? I'll message in the morning or the night before, a doctor will video call within 48 hours (usually, but often same day) and will ask me to come in if I need to. Otherwise they'll just prescribe after the call and send the prescription to my local pharmacy.
Hackney, Islington, Tower Hamlets, Greenwich - definitely my experience. People are definitely trying, even if it doesn't always work. Hope you get a bit more lucky next time!