On Tuesday 20 December, a critical incident across health services in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight was declared due to the significant pressure on local NHS services. On Thursday 22 December, Hampshire Hospitals stepped down from this critical incident, however the trust remains incredibly busy providing urgent and emergency care to a high volume of patients.

We are asking for the support of our local community during this period and we’d like to remind people to use the right service to get the care and advice you need. If you have a medical problem and you are not sure what to do, visit NHS 111 online. As ever, your NHS is always here for you and for a life-threatening emergency or if you require urgent care, please call 999.

We have seen an increase in both Covid-19 and flu inside our hospitals and in the community, whilst there are also rising instances of other winter viruses. You can play your part in helping your local hospitals by receiving your flu and Covid-19 vaccines. Whilst we continue to review our infection prevention control guidance regularly, masks must continue to be worn in all clinical areas of our hospitals. This applies to everyone: patients, staff and visitors. View the latest guidance here.

The deadline to share your nominations for the HHFT People Awards is fast approaching - you have until Monday 2 January! The HHFT People Awards are an opportunity to recognise the truly remarkable and inspiring things that Hampshire Hospitals staff - both clinical and non-clinical - do every day and we're encouraging Members, staff and our local community to submit nominations, sharing what has made a member of staff stand out from the crowd. Submit your nominations here.

Last month saw the opening of our new Hampshire Hospitals Heart Centre, a facility which will transform the quality of life for thousands of cardiac patients in Hampshire. The state-of-the art Centre, based at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, features two new cardiac catheterisation labs and is part of the trust’s ongoing commitment to providing outstanding care to our communities. Full story here.

The Hampshire Hospitals annual pantomime arrives on Saturday 7 January 2023, raising funds for Hampshire Hospitals Charity, including supporting their child health fundraiser The Magic Lion Appeal. This year's performance will see staff members performing Aladdin and The Magical Bedpan, and with tickets moving quickly, we'd encourage you to get in quickly to secure your seat. View full performance details and grab your tickets here.