Sussex ambulance strikes this week: public urged to make the right choice of NHS service

Ambulance staff in Sussex are striking, which includes non-emergency patient transport, meaning that fewer ambulances will be on the roads.

NHS Sussex said the 999 call handlers will be busy but said the NHS will prioritise people with life-threatening needs.

A spokesperson said: “The NHS is asking patients to seek emergency care if they need to during industrial action and take simple steps to help ensure care is available to patients who need it most.”

They said: “On days where there is strike action, you should only call 999 if it is a medical or mental health emergency (when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk). Ambulances will still be able to respond in these situations, but this may only be where there is an immediate risk to life.”

South Central Ambulance Service said that their Sussex patient transport service will keep going but said there will probably be less transport available.

People who need urgent care that is not life threatening are asked to ‘think 111 first’ and visit www.111.nhs.uk or call 111. Residents are also asked to only use Emergency Departments and A&Es for life threatening illness or injury. Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centres can provide help and care on the day.

Pharmacists can also help with minor health concerns and people can see which service is available at ics.nhs.uk.

NHS Sussex said all partners are working to manage pressures and are stepping up plans for industrial action across ambulance services. They are also finalising plans for the management of the industrial action that is planned across nursing staff on January 18 and 19.

NHS Sussex Chief Medical Officer, Dr Dinesh Sinha, said: “We ask for the public’s support during the day of industrial action so that those who most need NHS help and treatment can get the care they need. If it is a life-threatening emergency, please continue to use 999 or go to one of our Emergency Departments or A&Es. For other health needs please think very carefully about choosing the most appropriate NHS service.”

Home births have also temporarily been suspended.