A warning has been issued for people to only call for an ambulance in life-threatening emergencies ahead of NHS strikes next week. North West Ambulance Service says the availability of ambulances will be 'limited' on Monday (February 6) and Friday (February 10), while fewer people will be working at call centres.
It comes as both ambulance staff and nurses will be taking industrial action on the same day for the first time. NWAS says this will 'stretch resources' in both the ambulance service and hospitals, while the military and the private sector will be drafted in to help 'where appropriate'.
Ged Blezard, director of operations at NWAS, said: “It’s vital we keep the ambulances we do have available for those who really need us. Reasons to continue to call 999 include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries.
