On Monday, the Royal Surrey A&E had the highest number of attendees it has ever seen
12:59, 07 Oct 2026Updated 13:02, 07 Oct 2026
Staff and services are currently under “significant pressure” according to the Trust(Image: Surrey Advertiser)
The Royal Surrey NHS Trust is asking the public to use “healthcare services appropriately” this week as on Monday (October 5) its Emergency Department saw its highest-ever number of patients.
Those attending the Guildford Emergency Department with minor injuries have been told that they may face “a very long wait” this week due to the high number of patients currently being tended to.
On Monday, October 5, the NHS Trust recorded its highest number of attendees with almost 350 patients needing care at once.
This has placed “significant pressure” on staff and services and trust bosses have warned the public to “only attend the Emergency Department for genuine emergencies” for the time being.
The Royal Surrey Trust has said the pressure they are facing comes at a time when Emergency Departments across the country are “currently experiencing exceptionally high demand”.
Dr Bill Jewsbury, Royal Surrey’s Chief Medical Officer, spoke on the matter: “Emergency Departments across the country are currently experiencing exceptionally high demand. On Monday, we saw our highest-ever number of attendances, placing significant pressure on our staff and services.
“We are asking the public to use healthcare services appropriately and only attend the Emergency Department for genuine emergencies, so our teams can focus on those who need urgent care.
“Around half of patients who attended our Emergency Department told us they had not sought advice from another NHS service before attending.
“If you need help with a non-life-threatening medical condition and are unsure where to go, visit NHS 111 online or call 111. Alternatively, contact your GP or local pharmacist.
“Please be aware that attending the Emergency Department with a minor condition is likely to result in a very long wait. If appropriate, consider using alternative NHS services.”