The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) is asking for the public’s help as it prepares for another busy weekend.
EEAST is urging the public to use its service wisely and to drink responsibly – particularly on Sunday when England face Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley at 8.00pm.
Over the past few weeks, EEAST has seen an increase in alcohol related call-outs and traumatic injuries as the country continues to ease itself out of lockdown and a summer of sport continues.
Drinking responsibly
This current surge in activity comes on the back of sustained pressure through COVID-19 pandemic, winter pressures and an increased call volume since April with the easing of restrictions.
By acting and drinking responsibly as well as choosing the right service if you do need treatment, it reduces the call volume to help EEAST prioritise patients more efficiently and get to those in urgent need quicker.
Authority comment
There have been calls for medical problems that could have been dealt with via other routes such as pharmacies
Marcus Bailey, chief operating officer at the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST), said, “We don’t want to sound like a killjoy ahead of England being in the final on Sunday upcoming, but we need the public’s help now as much as we did during the early stages of the pandemic and we want people to enjoy themselves responsibly this weekend.
“Over the last few weeks we have seen an experienced increased demand and many have been related to the night-time economy."
"On top of that there have been calls for medical problems that could have been dealt with via other routes such as pharmacies, GPs."
Patients waiting longer
Bailey further states, “This is resulting in some patients waiting longer while we prioritise patients who are seriously unwell. Our staff have also experienced increase in violence and aggression which is not acceptable."
“I want to thank each and everyone of our staff and volunteers who have continued to care for patients, worked extended shifts, have had interrupted rest breaks during this busy period and during a challenging 18 months.”