We ask public to help us help them after busiest ever days in our 999 control rooms

In a week where our control rooms have experienced the busiest days in our history, we are calling on Londoners to use the right healthcare resources to get the care they need and help us to help them.

Garrett Emmerson, London Ambulance Service Chief Executive, said:

“We are seeing unprecedented demand for both our 999 and 111 services at the moment. Monday [16 March] was the busiest day ever for our 999 service with nearly 8,000 calls.

“Unfortunately, the huge volumes of 111 calls we are receiving from people who could potentially use nhs.uk/coronavirus means that more vulnerable Londoners who may not have the ability to access the internet, for instance older people, are struggling to get through.

“If you are concerned about Coronavirus symptoms, please go to nhs.uk/coronavirus if you possibly can to leave phone lines freer for those without access to the internet. Only call 999 for the most serious emergencies.”

Where to go to get help

• For advice and support around coronavirus go to: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.
• For urgent medical support and advice not related to coronavirus go to: www.111.nhs.uk
• Only call 111 if advised to by the online service or if you cannot access the internet.
• Only call 999 in life-threatening emergencies