One of the busiest starts to the summer has put significant pressure on ambulance services.
South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) reported handling nearly 78,000 999 calls between June 22 and July 12, a 16 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
John O’Sullivan, divisional director of integrated care at SECAmb, said: "This has been one of the busiest starts to summer we have experienced and with the continuing warmer weather and school holidays, we know that demand on our services and the wider NHS will remain high over the coming weeks."
The rise in calls followed a period of sustained high temperatures, with the public being urged to call 999 only in life-threatening emergencies.
Read more:
-
Ambulance service stands down critical incident after heatwave
-
Ambulance leaders take on cycling challenge to raise charity funds
SECAmb also saw more than 72,000 NHS 111 calls across Kent, Medway and Sussex during the same period.
The service is working to prioritise the most seriously ill and injured patients, using alternatives such as NHS 111 and pharmacy services to reduce unnecessary ambulance dispatches.
Mr O’Sullivan said: "By choosing the right service, alongside some simple steps to stay safe and well, people can help us keep 999 available for those who need it most."
More health advice is available on the NHS website.
Share