Yesterday (28 June), University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust declared a critical incident as the result of "exceptional pressure on services" at both County Hospital in Stafford and Royal Stoke University Hospital.

This is due to several factors including a high number of patients requiring care, delays in patients being discharged and significant pressure on local ambulance services.

The issues make it more difficult for patients to be moved through the hospitals efficiently.

UHNM said: "Our priority is to provide safe care to those who need it most.

"As part of our response, we are prioritising urgent and emergency treatment, working closely with our NHS partners to improve patient flow, and redeploying staff to support our busiest areas.

"We are asking the public to help us during this period by choosing the most appropriate service for their needs.

"If your condition is not life-threatening, please consider using NHS 111, your local pharmacy, GP services, or walk-in centres.

"Emergency departments should be used for serious or life-threatening conditions only.

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"We would like to thank our staff for their continued hard work and dedication and our patients and communities for their support and understanding."

Updates to follow.

Header image via Jonathan Hutchins on Geograph