NHS Surrey Sussex urges residents to use right service this winter
A&E departments face record-breaking demand heading into winter
Our local NHS services are entering the busiest season of the year, and health leaders across Surrey and Sussex are sounding the alarm about mounting pressure on emergency departments. Last month marked the busiest September on record for A&E services across England, with 2.44 million visits overwhelming facilities already stretched thin. As school holidays approach and winter weather sets in, NHS Surrey and Sussex is preparing for what could be an even more challenging few months ahead. The situation is particularly acute in our local hospitals, where emergency departments serve residents across multiple neighbourhoods and communities. Professor Andrew Rhodes, joint chief medical officer for NHS Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board, has emphasised that while A&E remains absolutely essential for life-threatening emergencies, many people attending emergency departments could receive faster, more appropriate care through alternative NHS services. The plea comes as health officials recognise that overcrowded A&E departments mean longer wait times for everyone, including those with genuine emergencies who need immediate intervention.
Know your options: Where to turn for different health needs
The NHS wants local residents to understand that emergency departments aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions. Think of it like calling Guilford builders for a loft conversion when you actually need routine maintenance—the right service for the right problem gets you better results faster. If you’re experiencing a minor illness, minor injury, or need health advice, NHS 111 provides free telephone guidance 24/7 from trained advisors who can direct you to the most appropriate care. Your GP surgery remains your first port of call for non-urgent health concerns and can often see you more quickly than A&E. Local pharmacies across our communities offer expert advice on common ailments and can dispense medications without prescription for certain conditions. Urgent treatment centres, located strategically throughout Surrey and Sussex, are specifically designed for problems that need prompt attention but aren’t life-threatening emergencies. For serious or life-threatening situations—chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe injuries, or sudden loss of consciousness—A&E and 999 remain absolutely the right choice. Understanding these options means better care for you and breathing room for our overstretched emergency services.
What residents need to do now and what comes next
Local residents should take action immediately to prepare for the winter season ahead. Start by knowing where your nearest urgent treatment centre is located and keeping NHS 111’s number easily accessible. If you have a regular GP surgery, ensure your details are up to date so they can contact you about appointments. Familiarise yourself with your local pharmacy’s services and opening hours. Share this information with older relatives, vulnerable neighbours, and friends who may be less confident navigating the NHS system. Businesses and community organisations should consider how they support staff and customers during winter months when health issues spike. Just as loft rebuilding requires proper planning and the right expertise, managing your health needs requires knowing where to turn. Health chiefs will continue monitoring demand throughout winter and will be tracking which services people access most. If you notice long waits or gaps in local services, report concerns to your GP practice or contact NHS Surrey and Sussex directly. Watch for updates from your local health trust regarding any changes to services, extended hours at urgent treatment centres, or new support available in your area. Together, using services wisely helps ensure everyone gets the care they need when they need it.
Source: NHS Surrey and Sussex plea to use right service as demand grows
