Staying Winter Well

The winter months bring increased pressure at our hospitals due to winter illnesses and difficulties in getting patients who are ready to leave hospital back home.

This winter, we're asking you to help to look after yourselves and protect hospital services for those that need it.

Winter Well message, November 2025

Please watch our video from Sarah Swanton, associate director of site operations, as she lets you know what you can do to help us get through the challenging months of winter together.

Five ways to stay well and support our hospital

1. Only attend the emergency department (ED) if your condition is urgent and poses a risk to life or limb. Please seek care from alternative healthcare providers whenever possible, allowing our emergency team to concentrate on delivering critical, life-saving treatment to those in greatest need. 
You can find out about other urgent care services available here.
Information about how pharmacies can help you, including the Pharmacy First service, can be found on the NHS website.

2. Get a flu jab as soon as possible to protect yourself and your loved ones. This year, flu cases are already surging more than a month earlier than usual, with rates three times higher than the same time last year.
Find out more about the flu jab and how to get one on the NHS website.

3. Avoid visiting hospital if unwell with symptoms of flu, sickness or respiratory illness, to protect vulnerable patients and staff. 
You can find out about any visiting restrictions that may be put in place here.

4. Prepare for times when you may not feel your best by keeping basic supplies and remedies at home - seek timely medical advice from your GP, pharmacist, or NHS 111 to help avoid hospital admission. 

5. Actively support hospital discharge plans when loved ones are ready to return home. Helping patients back to familiar surroundings not only benefits them but also frees up beds for those in urgent need of care. 
Find out more about leaving hospital here.