The Accident and Emergency department (A&E) treats life threatening or serious injuries and illnesses following an accident or in a medical emergency. 

It is there for everyone in the event of an accident or emergency. The treatment you receive will depend on your clinical need.

An emergency is a critical or life-threatening situation, such as:

• loss of consciousness
• acute confused state and fits that are not stopping
• persistent, severe chest pain
• breathing difficulties
• severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
• severe allergic reactions
• severe burns or scalds
• suspected broken bones
• drug overdose

Choking, chest pain, blacking out, blood loss and fractures are all considered emergencies and those with these symptoms should not hesitate in visiting their local A&E department.

If you are unable to get the patient to A&E, either yourself or via public transport (for example by taxi), or suspect that medical attention is required as a matter of urgency (for example, someone has lost consciousness and remains unconscious), dial 999 for an ambulance.

Local A&Es are open 24 hours-a-day.

For minor injuries such as minor burns and scalds, bites, cuts, simple fractures, sprains, bruises and wound infections, visit one of the county’s Minor Injury Units.