Leicester hospital trust critical incident stood down

The incident was stood down on New Year's Day

Hospital bosses have thanked staff and other health organisations for helping deal with a critical incident.

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said the status was declared on 30 December due to "high levels of patient attendance".

But the trust confirmed it stood down the incident on 1 January.

Bosses paid tribute to staff putting contingency plans in place and support from other areas of the health and social care sector.

'Under pressure'

The trust runs the Leicester Royal Infirmary, Glenfield and General hospitals in the city.

Managers said they announced a critical incident due to demand and "challenges with ambulance handovers and difficulties discharging patients".

In a statement they said: "Due to plans enacted over the following 48 hours, we were able to stand the incident down on 1st January 2023.

"We would like to thank health and social care colleagues across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland for their extraordinary efforts and commitment.

"Services remain under significant pressure. The public can continue to help us by clicking or calling NHS 111 before attending our emergency department unless their medical need is life-threatening."