Ambulance Strikes - 21st & 28th December
The two ambulance strikes planned over the coming weeks may well have an impact on our TEC services particularly as this may impact calls coming into our monitoring team in Worcester (ARC). It is likely that we will see an increase in calls on those days service users.
Given this unique set of circumstances we have taken onboard the TSA guidelines.
It is inevitable that there will be delays to callouts for falls and possibly no response at all. There is likely to be a continued knock-on effect in the immediate days following the strikes.
We are aware that the government and the NHS are attempting to put measures in place to mitigate as high a proportion of risk as possible. This includes mobilising the Army and St John’s Ambulance to attend calls, and increased vetting of patients by utilising more in-depth triage scripts for call handlers. However, it is uncertain at this stage how effective these measures will be.
We would suggest that all service users take the following actions
1. Ensure your records and contact lists are accurate and up to date. If possible, include an appropriate contact that can provide a ‘physical response’.
2. If possible, think about alternative ways you have of making your own way to hospital.
3. Try and minimise the risk of falls, the following is taken from the NHS website:
- Immediately mop up spillages
- Remove clutter including trailing wires and frayed carpet
- Make sure your home is well lit
- Organise your home so that climbing, stretching and bending are kept to a minimum
- Get help with tasks you cannot easily do on your own
- Don’t walk on slippery floors in socks or tights
- Don’t wear loose fitting, trailing clothes
- Wear well fitting shoes
Ultimately we will still be operating our usual service and you should not worry about pressing your button if you need assistance.
To update your current information please email [email protected] or call us Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm on 0800 130 0011
