"Be prepared": South Western Ambulance urge public to use service responsibly
The calls come as the NHS prepares for a busy winter
Last updated 10th Dec 2024
Staff at the South Western Ambulance service are urging communities across the region to use its services responsibly this winter, as it prepares for an increase in demand.
The number of 999 calls have increased from an average of 2,600 calls per day to more than 3,000 in December.
It's as the winter months see a rise in flu, respiratory illness and COVID, amongst others.
Staff are reminding the public to make sure medicine cabinets are stocked over Christmastime.
Jessica Cunningham, Executive Director of Operations at SWASFT, said: “We know this winter is going to be a very challenging time for us, which is why we’re urging local communities to use our services responsibly, and choose the right care for them.
“I would like to thank our people and NHS colleagues who will be working together throughout the winter to help keep us all safe and well. Should you need their help, please be kind to them as they are all working hard under significant daily pressures.”
The Ambulance Trust is asking people in the region to follow these steps, in the case of an emergency:
- Only call 999 when someone is seriously injured or ill and their life may be at risk. For example, if someone is unconscious, not breathing or is bleeding heavily.
- If you’re waiting for an ambulance, please don’t call 999 back — unless the patient’s condition has deteriorated or you no longer need an ambulance — to ask when one will arrive, these details can’t be provided, as ambulances are sent to patients with the most life-threatening conditions first.
- For non-life-threatening emergencies, people can access appropriate care by visiting NHS 111 online, contacting their GP or getting advice from a pharmacy.