We want to make sure you get the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Many people come to the Emergency Department (ED) with problems that could be treated more quickly and effectively elsewhere. Demand is high all year and especially high during the winter months, so it is important we keep the ED for people who need life-saving care. Choosing the right service supports us to do this and means you will be seen faster.
Where to go first
Before coming to the ED, please consider:
- Pharmacy – for advice and medicines for minor illnesses
- Your GP practice – for ongoing or non-urgent health problems
- NHS 111 – for 24/7 advice on what to do and where to go when it is urgent but not an emergency
Find out more information about getting NHS help fast.
How to support a poorly child
We have created the Stay Home, Stay Well guide to support parents and carers of children aged 0 to 9 years. The guide gives you simple tips so you can be confident in giving home-based care to your child when treating some common health worries, and when to seek NHS help.
What happens if you attend and it is not an emergency
If you come to the ED and do not need emergency care, we will:
- book you a same-day appointment at a local Urgent Treatment Centre, or
- guide you to another off-site service that is right for your needs
Thank you for your support in helping us improve care for everyone.
What are serious or life-threatening illnesses and injuries
The Emergency Department provides emergency care for people who show symptoms of serious and life-threatening injuries and illness, such as:
● Severe burns or scald
● Chest pain
● Breathing difficulties
● Heart attacks
● Strokes
● Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
● Severe injuries
● Severe allergic reactions
Everyone is assessed and treated based on how urgently they need medical help. This means that people might not be seen in the order they arrived or based on how they got there. The priority is to take care of those with the most critical medical needs first.