Ambulance Service Urges Public to Help Ease Pressure Over Festive Period

The South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) is calling on the public to help relieve pressure on 999 crews as the region heads into one of the busiest times of the year.

Secamb expects demand to spike in the days following the long Christmas bank holiday, with daily 999 calls likely to top 3,000. Last December, teams handled nearly 90,000 emergency calls — almost 10% more than the previous month.

Chief Operating Officer Jen Allan said staff have been preparing for the seasonal surge:

“The weeks leading up to Christmas and beyond are always extremely busy for the ambulance service.

"As demand rises, the public can really help us stay available for those in life-threatening emergencies by using alternative services where appropriate.”

The trust says the most seriously ill and injured patients will continue to be prioritised.

People are also urged not to ignore potentially serious symptoms, such as chest pain, and to call 999 as soon as they develop rather than waiting for them to worsen.

Callers with less urgent health issues may be given advice from a clinician over the phone or directed to a more suitable service, such as NHS 111 or their local pharmacy.

Secamb is also reminding the public to order repeat prescriptions early and to take up the flu vaccine if eligible.