Ambulance service faces surge in demand over busy weekend

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 06:26 · Archive

South Western Ambulance Service responded to over 7,000 incidents across one weekend, about 10 per cent above expected levels.

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) responded to 3,502 incidents on Saturday 31 October and 3,535 on Sunday 1 November. Demand on both days was around 10 per cent higher than expected.

The service said increased 999 calls, seasonal illnesses, colder weather and continuing delays in transferring patients from ambulances into hospital care had all contributed to the pressure. Further demand was anticipated as people attended fireworks displays and bonfires.

Wayne Darch, director of operations at SWASFT, said the weekend was 'an incredibly demanding time' for the service and thanked staff for working hard to support communities. He appealed to the public to help ensure crews could reach those who needed them most, saying every 999 call matters and resources should be prioritised for patients whose lives may be at risk.

SWASFT urged people to dial 999 only for serious or life-threatening emergencies, such as when someone is unconscious, not breathing normally, seriously injured or suffering severe bleeding. The service also asked the public not to call 999 for updates on ambulance arrival times, as ambulances are prioritised according to clinical need.

How it is being reported

• Ambulance service issues warning after more than 7,000 incidents in busy weekendAmbulance bosses have urged people to use 999 responsibly after crews dealt with more than 7,000 incidents during a weekend of heightened demandDorset Echo · 3 Nov, 05:00
• Ambulance service responds to more than 7,000 incidents in one weekendMore than 7,000 incidents were responded to in just one weekend as the South Western Ambulance Service faced "incredibly demanding" pressure.Bournemouth Echo · 2 Nov, 14:34

In this story: South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust · Wayne Darch · Dorset · South West

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