Imformation

Critical Incidents

critical incident declared by hospitals across East Kent is a stark indication of the intense pressure our NHS services are facing. At this moment, our hospitals need the understanding and support of patients and the wider community while this crisis continues.

It is important to be clear: the hospital trusts are not to blame for the current situation. Staff at every level are working tirelessly, often under extraordinary strain, to provide safe and compassionate care.

What is also becoming increasingly evident is that a significant number of people attending A&E do not need to be there. This is not a criticism of patients, but a reflection of the gaps in the wider system. When community‑based services are stretched or unavailable, people understandably turn to the only door that is always open.

This is why the many services that help keep patients well and out of hospital must be rapidly expanded. Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust already plays a vital role in enabling people to remain safely at home, reducing pressure on acute hospitals. But these services cannot meet rising demand without meaningful additional government investment.

CHEK urges national leaders to recognise the scale of the challenge and act now to strengthen primary care and community support. Without urgent investment, the pressure on our hospitals will only intensify, and the public will continue to feel the consequences.