Today, (Wednesday, 3 June), Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust declared a critical incident due to sustained pressures at our Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals.

For some weeks, there has been extremely high attendance at our emergency departments, a high admission rate, and a low discharge rate. This has had a major impact on patient flow, limiting capacity and ability to admit further patients needing our care.

This is not an easy decision; however, declaring a critical incident enables us to adapt services and work with system partners in a more coordinated way, increasing opportunities to discharge efficiently and enabling patients to recover in the most suitable, non-acute hospital setting for their needs.

Attending our emergency departments for non-life-threatening conditions currently will mean a longer than usual wait If you need medical assistance, please use NHS111 who can direct you to the best alternative services such as your GP, pharmacy, or urgent treatment centre.

Please help us protect care for those who need it most:

  • Only attend the emergency department for a life-threatening illness or injury.
  • If a friend or loved one is ready  to go home, please help by collecting them at the earliest opportunity.
  • If you are unwell, please don’t postpone seeking medical advice from a GP or pharmacist.

Tackling illness early can help avoid a hospital admission.

Dr Nick Ward, deputy chief medical officer for Hampshire Hospitals, says: “Declaring a critical incident in early summer is extremely unusual; however, it reflects the unprecedented attendance at our Emergency Departments as well as a high number of inpatients.”

“There are two ways the public can help at this time; firstly, by only attending our Emergency Departments if acutely unwell or injured; and secondly by collecting loved ones who are ready for discharge. Our ward teams can help with medication or equipment so if you can, please have the conversation and collect loved ones; this will free up capacity for someone who in need of hospital treatment and care.”

Everything is being done to increase capacity for urgent emergency care in our hospitals and we appreciate the public’s support and patience during this time.

We are currently reviewing patients scheduled for elective procedures and appointments. Unless you hear from us directly, please attend your procedure or appointment as planned.