7 January 2025, 19:06

By Sophie O'Sullivan

Multiple critical incidents have been declared across a number of UK hospitals as many services struggle under a perfect storm of cold weather, respiratory conditions, flu, Covid-19, and norovirus.

Hospitals across the UK are struggling to cope with an extreme influx of patients leaving them with no option but to declare critical incidents.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting told LBC that he is "distressed and ashamed" about what patients are going through as six hospitals have declared critical incidents in their A&Es.

A critical incident indicates a hospital or service is no longer able to function properly. This status can be declared as a result of exceptional demand or even a significant staffing issue.

During a critical incident hospitals can implement special measures such as prioritizing urgent care to ensure patient safety.

As of 5.30pm on Tuesday January 7, this is a list of those hospitals which have declared a critical incident:

Read more: Health Secretary 'distressed and ashamed’ for........

© LBC