NHS Cheshire and Merseyside under pressure as demand for services increases

NHS services across Cheshire and Merseyside are under significant pressure, with rising demand for GP services, hospital care, mental health support, and emergency departments.

This year’s flu season has arrived earlier than usual, with cases increasing rapidly. Hospitals across the region are currently treating high numbers of patients, including people with chronic respiratory conditions, which are often worsened by cold winter weather.

According to the latest NHS urgent and emergency care data, an average of 295 people per day were hospitalised with flu across Cheshire and Merseyside last week — more than double the number recorded during the same week last year.

When to Use A&E and How NHS 111 Can Help

The NHS is reminding residents that Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments should only be used for life-threatening conditions. For less urgent health concerns, people are encouraged to use NHS 111 to help reduce pressure on emergency services.

NHS 111 is available:

Online at 111.nhs.uk

Via the NHS App

By phone

The service can assess symptoms and direct patients to the most appropriate local care, including urgent treatment centres, GP appointments, or pharmacy consultations.

NHS Advice to Stay Well During Winter

Dr Fiona Lemmens, Deputy Medical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:

“Winter is traditionally a period of high demand across NHS services, driven by flu, respiratory infections, and other seasonal illnesses.

NHS 111 online is an excellent first step if you have an urgent health concern and can help guide you to the right service.”

She also advised people to:

Keep a small supply of basic medicines at home, such as paracetamol, plasters, and indigestion remedies

Seek advice from community pharmacists for minor illnesses and injuries

Get Your Winter Vaccinations to Protect Yourself and Others

Professor Rowan Pritchard Jones, Medical Director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, added:

“The increase in flu and seasonal viruses creates extra pressure during an already challenging winter period. Winter vaccinations are essential to prevent serious illness and reduce hospital admissions.”

Getting vaccinated helps:

Protect vulnerable individuals

Reduce pressure on hospitals

Support NHS staff delivering critical care

Who is eligible for a free flu vaccine?

Adults aged 65 and over

People with long-term health conditions

Pregnant women

Young children

Appointments can be booked through:

GP practices

Local pharmacies

NHS online services

Flu vaccines are also available on the Living Well Bus, with no appointment required.

Parents are encouraged to ensure eligible children receive the nasal spray flu vaccine, as children are more likely to catch and spread flu, which can lead to serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

More Seasonal Health Advice

To help reduce the spread of illness this winter, the NHS also recommends:

Washing hands regularly

Keeping warm

Seeking vaccinations promptly