Warning of long waits at Borders General Hospital as health services come under 'significant pressure'
Last updated 7th Jan 2026
NHS Borders says it's experiencing significant pressure across its healthcare system.
According to the health board, the Emergency Department at Borders General Hospital is exceptionally busy - with people facing long waits for admission.
It's urging only those with a life-threatening emergency to attend.
Everyone else is being encouraged to call NHS 24 on 111 in advance, or seek help from their local GP and pharmacy.
READ MORE: Motorists 'clocked' at more than six times the speed limit in Tweedbank
"As always, please only attend the department if it is a life-threatening emergency," a statement posted on its social media accounts reads this morning (Wednesday).
"If you have a minor injury or urgent health problem which isn't life-threatening please seek the right care in the right place."
READ MORE: Chart-topper surprises staff at beauty spot in the Scottish Borders
It adds: "NHS 24 will signpost you to the right place to get the advice or care that you need. You may need to wait a while for your call to be answered or for a member of the team to call you back, but this can be done in the comfort of your own home.
"If you do need to be seen, you may be given an appointment time to minimise the time you need to spend in the Emergency Department. This also reduces pressure on our team."
Self-help guides for common symptoms and conditions are also available online at: www.nhsinform.scot
The warning comes as East Berwickshire councillor James Anderson appeals to locals to look out for neighbours this winter.
The Met Office has issued fresh yellow - be prepared - warnings for snow and ice, covering the Scottish Borders for today and tomorrow.
“As the snow falls and the council staff get ready for some cold days ahead, can I ask everyone to check on your neighbours, family and friends," Councillor Anderson said in a post on his Facebook page.
“Are your older family stocked up for a week in the house? Even better, get your elderly parents to spend a few nights and make it a family time. Is there money on the pre-pay meter? Is the coal box topped up and logs in. Have you dug the sledge out of the shed?
“We all know it’s winter and now is the time to prepare for a cold snap with some beautiful winter weather we can all enjoy. Plan for the worst and whatever happens won’t feel as bad.”
Elsewhere, Northumberland County Council has confirmed Kielder Primary School and Nursery will be closed today after a burst pipe caused internal flooding.
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/