Under-pressure ambulance services need national support

A Liberal Democrats survey says one in four people have avoided calling an ambulance because they thought it would take too long to arrive.

Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive, NHS Providers, said:

“Anyone in an emergency who needs help fast should call 999 right away.

"In England demand - a third higher than before the pandemic - for the most serious ambulance calls has gone through the roof but trusts and staff continue to work flat out to see patients as quickly as possible.

“Latest figures show improved ambulance response times. Recent months have been some of the busiest ever for callouts.

“Despite their best efforts stretched teams face an uphill battle as demand keeps outstripping available resources and staff. Adequate long-term investment in ambulance services is needed alongside sustained efforts to recruit, train and retain staff."