The Shadow Minister for Social Care, Children, Young People, and Older People - Janet Finch-Saunders MS – is reminding everyone that emergency departments are still open for those in urgent need of care. This follows the finding that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has seen the lowest number of individuals in A&E for April since record begun.

Commenting on the situation, Mrs Finch-Saunders said:

“Our community has pulled together to support frontline workers and reduce pressure on the NHS during this pandemic.

“One place which is seeing the impact of our national effort is our local A&E departments.

“The number of attendees to North Wales A&Es in April was 56% down on the same month last year.

“That over 10,000 fewer individuals went to A&E raises the possibility that some may be unaware that the service is open, and unnecessarily suffering when help is available for those in urgent need.

“Call 999 or attend your local emergency department if you are seriously worried. Please, do not leave it too late”.

ENDS

Notes:

• Wales’ emergency departments are still open and here for those in urgent need
• Number of attendances in NHS Wales accident and emergency departments by age band, sex and site