South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) this morning reduced its heightened alert level from Critical Incident to an Internal Business Continuity Incident.

It is thanks to the hard work and dedication of our staff and our partners that we have been able to stand down to this level. However, we are still experiencing pressure on our services which is why we remain on a Business Continuity Incident. This is due to the expected hot weather forecast through until next week and the demands being placed on all NHS services.

While the demand is still high on NHS services we would continue to urge people to use NHS services for the right reasons.

• We are asking patients to help us by seeking alternative treatment or advice via NHS 111 online or by calling 111, using local urgent care centres or speaking to their GP or local pharmacist.
• We are also asking people not to call 999 back to ask about an estimated time unless the patient’s condition has changed. This keeps the line free for someone who may need urgent assistance.
• For people calling 111, please do not hang up and call again as this will send you to the back of the queue.

We would like to thank everyone for your support during this difficult time and we will post further updates on both our social media channels and website.