Cornwall NHS declares critical incident

Health bosses have declared a "critical incident" in Cornwall due to "sustained pressure" on services at its main hospital.

NHS Cornwall asked people not to go to the emergency department of the Royal Cornwall Hospital unless the condition is "life or limb-threatening".

It said people should use other NHS services if possible.

A critical incident, the highest alert level, allows bosses to take "immediate steps to create capacity".

Health bosses said they took the action on Sunday evening following "sustained pressure experienced by Cornwall's main hospital and emergency department over the weekend".

Kate Shields, chief executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, said people should use the 111 service, after hours GPs or minor injury units.

"We urgently need your support to make sure we can see those who are sickest and have the greatest need," she said.

"Families, friends and neighbours are urged to help us too by offering to support someone waiting for home care to leave hospital sooner and we would ask them to contact the ward directly if they can help in any way."

Patients who come to the Emergency Department in Truro who can be treated elsewhere will be directed to those services, she added.

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