Basingstoke hospital declares critical incident
Trust urges residents to use alternative healthcare services where appropriate as pressure on emergency department intensifies
Last updated 3rd Jun 2026
Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has declared a critical incident following ongoing operational pressures at its hospitals in Basingstoke and Winchester.
The decision, announced today (3 June), comes after weeks of exceptionally high demand across emergency departments, combined with rising numbers of patients requiring admission and slower-than-normal discharge rates.
Hospital leaders say these factors have significantly reduced capacity and created challenges in moving patients through the system efficiently.
The trust said declaring a critical incident was not taken lightly, but the move will allow healthcare teams to work more closely with partner organisations across the region.
By coordinating services and accelerating appropriate discharges, officials hope to free up hospital beds and ensure patients receive care in the most suitable setting for their needs, including community and non-acute care facilities.
Patients seeking treatment for non-emergency conditions are being warned to expect longer waits in emergency departments. Residents who require medical advice are encouraged to contact NHS 111, which can direct them to alternative services such as GPs, pharmacies, urgent treatment centres, or other appropriate healthcare providers.
Hospital leaders are also asking the public to help ease pressure on services by reserving emergency departments for serious and life-threatening conditions. Families and carers are encouraged to collect relatives promptly when they are medically fit to leave hospital, helping to make beds available for those in need of urgent treatment.
The trust further urged people not to delay seeking advice from a GP or pharmacist if they feel unwell, noting that early treatment can often prevent illnesses from worsening and reduce the likelihood of a hospital admission.
Dr Nick Ward, deputy chief medical officer for Hampshire Hospitals, says: “Declaring a critical incident in early summer is extremely unusual; however, it reflects the unprecedented attendance at our Emergency Departments as well as a high number of inpatients.”
“There are two ways the public can help at this time; firstly, by only attending our Emergency Departments if acutely unwell or injured; and secondly by collecting loved ones who are ready for discharge. Our ward teams can help with medication or equipment so if you can, please have the conversation and collect loved ones; this will free up capacity for someone who in need of hospital treatment and care.”