South East Coast Ambulance Service answered more than 3,000 calls to 999 on Boxing Day

People are being urged to only call 999 in the event of a life-threatening or serious emergency. Credit: SECAmb

An ambulance service which covers Sussex and Kent is urging people to use its services wisely as demand is expected to remain high.

On Boxing Day, South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) answered more than 3,000 calls to 999 and across the weekend of 28 and 29 December, staff handled approximately 6,000 calls.

People are being urged to only call 999 in the event of a life-threatening or serious emergency.

The service says people who are not facing a serious emergency should make alternative arrangements such seeking advice from a GP or pharmacist.

If its urgent but not an emergency people can call NHS 111 or seek advice from 111 online at 111.nhs.uk.

The Trust has thanked members of the public for their support in recent weeks and staff and volunteers for their hard work over the festive and New Year period.

SECAmb Chief Executive, Simon Weldon, said: “I would like to thank every colleague who has worked so hard throughout the past 12 months to respond to the needs of our patients.

"Thank you to everyone who has spent time away from their family and friends to look after our communities over Christmas and New Year.

“I would also like to thank all our volunteers. They provide vital support, day-in, day-out, to our frontline teams, freely giving up their time to make their communities safer.

“I am certain that 2025 will see our teams, whatever their role across our organisation, continue to provide compassionate care to their local population.

“As a service, we will do everything we can to ensure we are providing the best possible care for our patients by working in close partnership with the wider NHS and partner organisations across our region."

SECAmb winter tips

  • Take up the opportunity for flu and COVID-19 booster vaccinations when offered to protect yourself and others

  • Look out for any vulnerable family or friends

  • Keep up to date with any repeat prescriptions you or your family or friends need

  • Heat homes to at least 18C (65F)

  • Carry some useful items in your vehicle such as a blanket and a spade for colder and possible snowy weather

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