NHS STAFF across the South West worked around the clock to keep patients safe as a red heat-health alert combined with severe weather and rising demand put services under pressure.

Record-breaking temperatures on Wednesday, June 24 and Thursday, June 25, brought extra demand as the heat prompted fears for people’s health, especially the vulnerable and elderly.

Hot weather can worsen already existing conditions such as heart, lung and kidney disease, and increases the risk of dehydration and overheating, even for otherwise healthy people.

Health teams stepped up preparations, freeing up beds, managing patient flow and supporting vulnerable people while still continuing to respond to unexpected incidents across the heatwave.

Frontline staff across the region has to adapt in real time balancing high demand in emergency departments and ambulance services with the added risks that hot weather brings.

This included checking on the most vulnerable patients, adjusting care for those with long-term conditions, and supporting safe discharge to ease pressure on hospitals.

Health leaders say staff are showed “remarkable resilience and teamwork” despite the challenges, with services working together across hospitals, community care and ambulance trusts to maintain patient safety.

Regional medical director for NHS England South West, Dr Trevor Smith, said: “Our staff are working incredibly hard to keep people safe and are showing remarkable resilience and teamwork.

“With the World Cup underway, there is also a reminder to drink alcohol sensibly to reduce the risk of dehydration. Choosing the right NHS service will also help us care for those who need it most.”

NHS services open for those who need urgent care, but people are encouraged to use NHS 111 online advice or pharmacies for non-urgent issues.

The NHS App also links to NHS 111 online and offers advice for a wide range of symptoms.

Visit the NHS website for trusted health information and to find local pharmacies, dentists and GP services.