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NHS Trust Hits Breaking Point: Fourth Critical Incident Declared
22 Oct
Summary
- Nottingham trust declared its fourth critical incident this year.
- Staff cite constant pressure and call for more specialist training.
- A&E saw over 200 patients with over 100 waiting to be seen.
Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS trust recently declared its fourth critical incident of 2026, citing record patient numbers in its accident and emergency departments. This critical incident was declared on Tuesday and subsequently stood down Wednesday afternoon after patient waiting numbers significantly dropped.
Union Unison stated that frontline staff are at "absolute breaking point" due to the constant pressure from these recurring critical incidents. They are urging the trust to provide additional staff with specialist training in emergency care, mental health support, and for improved handling of violent incidents.
The trust acknowledged that more work is needed to enhance the A&E experience for both patients and staff, with the elimination of corridor care remaining a priority. The critical incident was a response to extreme demand, including over 200 patients in A&E on Tuesday and a 2,000 increase in attendances compared to September 2025, along with a high number of cardiology patients diverting resources. The trust emphasized its commitment to staff and patient safety, vowing robust action against any abuse or violence towards its employees.
