Second hospital declares critical incident

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is the second hospital in the county to declare a critical incident

Norfolk’s largest hospital has declared a critical incident due to high demand on its accident and emergency department (A&E) and a shortage of beds.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) becomes the second hospital in the county to declare a critical incident after the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston did so on Monday.

NHS trusts declare critical incidents when they face extraordinary pressures and need to prioritise certain services.

A spokesperson for the NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) said people should only attend A&E in a "genuine emergency".

"Our health and care system in Norfolk and Waveney is extremely busy at this time," a statement added.

"We would encourage people to only attend an emergency department or call 999 if they have a serious accident or genuine emergency, like chest pain, breathing difficulties, signs of a stroke or bleeding that won’t stop."

The James Paget Hospital announced a critical incident on Monday

ICBs are accountable for the performance and finances of the NHS.

The James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it was working closely with its partners in the Norfolk and Waveney healthcare system to "maximise capacity".

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn said it had also seen demand on its services increase. However, it was not currently operating at a critical level.

The ICB said anyone that felt unwell should seek help and could call 111 or visit 111 online.

During latest inspections by the Care Quality Commission, the NNUH and James Paget Hospital were both rates as requires improvement.