South Central Ambulance Service has declared a "critical incident" as a result of the demand on its 999 service combined with travel disruption because of Storm Eunice. 

The Trust is seeing higher demand above what is normally expected at this time of year and patients are waiting longer due to the disruption to the region's road system through road, bridge and other closures impacting their response times.

Paul Jefferies, Assistant Director of Operations, said: “Declaring a critical incident allows us to seek further support from our partners, and alerts the wider healthcare system to our existing challenges brought about by Storm Eunice in reaching patients as quickly as we would like.

"We will continue to focus on reaching those patients with life-threatening or serious injuries and illnesses first, and unfortunately there will be unavoidable delays in getting to those patients with less urgent needs for which we apologise in advance.

"We would ask such patients to help us by seeking alternative treatment or advice via NHS 111 online or by calling 111, local urgent care centres or speaking to your GP or local pharmacist.”

As part of its critical incident response, SCAS say it is:

  • Ensuring all clinically qualified managers and supervisors are available to respond to 999 emergencies
  • Requesting off duty staff to come in and work extra hours
  • Mobilising additional vehicles from its South Central Fleet Services partner
  • Utilising its committed volunteer community first responders and co-responders as much as possible