• Emergency Department facing significant pressure
• Attendances up and more than 170 patients in department
• Strike action continues until midnight on Wednesday 28 February

Royal Bolton Hospital’s Emergency Department is facing significant pressure this week with a surge in demand and a large number of people waiting to be admitted for a bed.

Attendances in the department are up 10% compared to previous Mondays, with more than 170 patients in the department at lunchtime on Monday (26 February).

NHS doctors in Bolton are urging people to only attend in life or limb-threatening emergencies so that staff can prioritise care for patients with the highest clinical needs.

For minor conditions people are being advised to use NHS 111 online, local pharmacies and GPs, and the GP out of hours service which can be contacted via their GP surgery or directly on 0161 763 8940.

Dr. Francis Andrews, Medical Director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

Winter is always an incredibly busy time for our Emergency Department and the latest round of industrial action means those pressures feel even greater.

“We have robust plans in place to reduce the impact as much as we can and to deliver safe and high quality care, but we’re once again asking for the public’s support to help us make sure we can treat our sickest patients as quickly as possible.

“We’re always here to help in life or limb-threatening emergencies, but if your condition isn’t urgent please consider seeking treatment elsewhere.

“NHS 111 has lots of advice and we have pharmacies across Bolton who can help with minor conditions such as coughs, colds, earaches and sore throats.

“Thank you for your ongoing kindness and support.

Strike action began on Saturday 24 February and will finish at midnight on Wednesday 28 February 2024, with services expected to return to normal on Thursday 29 February.

The Be The Difference Bolton website has information to help you choose the right NHS service for your health need.

The While You Wait website also has lots of helpful information on staying well whilst you wait for treatment.