Hospital's A&E warning

The accident and emergency department is currently “experiencing an unprecedented demand” on its services with Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust urging the public to only attend for serious and life-threatening emergencies.

Bosses warn that anyone attending whose condition is not in that bracket will have to wait longer than normal.

It’s the second time in a week that the Trust has sent out such a warning with one sent out last Thursday.

Mary Fleming, Acting Director of Operations said: “Our message is simple – if you have a serious urgent medical emergency, go to A&E or dial 999.

“For everything else please call your GP, attend the walk-in-centre or access the out of hours GP services. These are exceptional circumstances in which we are asking people to avoid A&E unless absolutely essential.

“Unnecessary trips to our A&E are putting a strain on the whole of the hospital. With the support of the public we can make sure that we are able to focus our attention on our vulnerable patients with serious medical emergencies.”

There are many different ways that people can get help themselves or get the right treatment with extended GP services at appointments up until 8pm weekdays and between 10am and 4pm at the weekend with doctors or nurses.

Registered Wigan Borough patients can call 01942 482848 and book an appointment thorough this service.