Hot weather and pressures at the Royal Bolton Hospital are causing longer waits in its accident and emergency department.

The A&E department is currently "extremely busy", with staff experiencing "extremely high levels of activity" and waiting hours continuing to be around four hours.

The hospital staff in the department have stated they are still there for people with life-threatening illnesses but are advising people to choose the most appropriate place for care to reduce pressure.

Chief operating officer at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, Rae Wheatcroft, said: “We are experiencing longer waits in our emergency department today (Wednesday) than is usual at this time, in part because of pressures in other areas impacting on the number of people attending, and partly because of the hotter weather. 

“NHS 111 online provides expert advice and guidance for many health conditions and concerns, so if your issue is not life-threatening or an emergency, please consider visiting NHS 111 for support and to understand where best to receive care if needed.  

“The NHS website has information about how to take care and enjoy the sun safely during the hotter weather. Please remember to stay hydrated, use sun cream and stay cool where possible. 

“Our emergency department is always here for anyone who has a life-threatening or emergency need, but those with more minor concerns will experience a long wait at present.

"However, as we go into a period of industrial action from tomorrow, we anticipate the department being extremely busy for the remainder of the week.

“Our staff continue to work hard to see people as quickly as they can.” 

The accident and emergency department at the Royal Bolton deals with life-threatening emergencies such as:

  • Severe chest pains
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bleeding you can’t stop
  • Possible broken bones
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Stroke symptoms
  • Severe tummy pain or headache
  • A child who is very unwell

Those who have an illness or injury and need medical help outside of normal working hours there are local services available such as pharmacies and out of hours GP services.

The GP out of hours service can be contacted by phoning your own GP surgery and following the instructions on the answering machine.

Alternatively, you can phone BARDOC directly on 0161 763 8940.

There is no longer a walk-in service at Waters Meeting Health Centre.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno