"We are seeing record numbers": South Central Ambulance Service urges people to only call 999 for emergencies
‘Only call 999 for emergencies’ - That is the message SCAS is putting out this Christmas as the service faces record numbers this Christmas.
South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is urging people to only call 999 for life-threatening emergencies to alleviate pressure on the service during one of the busiest times of the year.
The appeal comes as figures show that on December 8, SCAS took 1,987 calls – the highest daily total in 2025.
Tracy Redman, assistant director of operations for Hampshire, said: “Winter is usually the busiest time of the year for the NHS as the cold and wet weather sees a rise in respiratory illnesses and winter bugs, as well as an increase in slips, trips, falls and road traffic collisions.
“This year, we are also seeing record numbers of people admitted to hospital with flu and that adds even more pressure on the system across the board.”
The service is advising people to:
- Celebrate sensibly – know your limits with alcohol, eat something before going out and pace yourself.
- Know when to call 999 – only call for a serious or life-threatening emergency, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or severe injury
- Use 111 – call or go online at 111.nhs.uk for urgent but not emergency health concerns
The Safe Space in Portsmouth, which is open between 10pm and 3am every Friday and Saturday, offers medical care during a night out.
Tracy added: “These town centre support services help keep people safe and avoid ambulance call outs as paramedics based at the units can often treat most people they see without them having to go to hospital.
“By looking out for each other on your night out, planning how you’ll get home safely and getting help early if someone in the group starts to feel unwell, you can protect your friends, yourself and help us focus on those who most urgently need us this Christmas and New Year.”