Data released yesterday shows NHS pressures are not letting up as winter ends, with huge demand on services last week. Local people are asked to continue to choose the best health service for their need and collect loved ones who are ready to be discharged from hospital.

Dr Nigel Acheson, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Devon, said: “This winter has been incredibly busy and challenging for the NHS, with staff juggling high demand for services, pressure caused by flu, COVID-19 and norovirus, high bed occupancy, and periods of industrial action.

“This latest data shows we are still experiencing significant demand going into spring.”

“It is important that those needing emergency or life-saving care contact 999 or attend an emergency department (ED), but we ask everyone else to choose the best service for their medical need. If your condition isn’t life-threatening, consider 111, your GP, or local pharmacy first.

“To ensure we can free up beds for the really sick patients who are coming into our EDs, we ask anyone who has a loved one in hospital who is ready to come home, to come and collect them as soon as possible.”

Local people can do their bit to help NHS services by:

• Continue to call 999 in emergency and life-threatening cases - when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk
• Go to NHS 111 online if you need medical help or advice, or you are unsure about whether you should go to hospital - you can also phone 111
• Please check local hospital trust websites for information on Minor Injuries Units (MIUs) and Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs). Further information can be found here: Get the care you need
• Play your part by taking simple steps to look after yourselves and loved ones, checking in on vulnerable family members and neighbours - a first step is making sure your medicine cabinet is well-stocked
• Please pick up loved ones who are ready to be discharged from hospital
• Make use of community pharmacies, which can advise on minor illnesses and provide medications - details about local pharmacies be found via the interactive map here: Find a pharmacy
• If you, or someone you know, experiences a mental health crisis, you can access support from a number of places:
  • 24/7 urgent mental health helpline - 0808 196 8708
  • Mental Health Matters helpline (24/7) - 0800 470 0317
  • Mental Health Crisis Line Plymouth is open 24/7 - 0800 923 9323
  • Samaritans - 1116 123
  • Text SHOUT to 85258 for 24/7 text support