Don’t end up calling ‘Mayday!’ this May Day: Local hospitals urge caution

As local residents gear up for what is set to be a wet weekend this bank holiday, doctors and nurses at Epsom and St Helier hospitals have advised those thinking of turning their attention to DIY projects to take care when making the most of the long weekend.

For the past few years, hospital staff have seen a spike in A&E attendances on the Tuesday following the May Day bank holiday, with many patients injuring themselves and then waiting until after the bank holiday to visit the hospitals.

Dr Ruth Charlton, Joint Medical Director and Deputy Chief Executive, said:

“It’s completely understandable that people want to take advantage of the long weekend and make a start on the odd jobs that keep getting put off, but unfortunately accidents do happen and patients should not postpone seeking medical assistance.”

Last year 468 people came to the hospitals’ A&E departments on the Tuesday after the bank holiday, compared to the average of 437 on the following two Tuesdays – an increase of 7%.

“We always ensure that we have additional staff on during the holidays, but our advice is always to take simple preventative steps to avoid an accident in the first place. DIY tasks and repair jobs all pose a risk of injury; therefore, it’s always best to use protective gear, take your time and give the task in hand your full concentration,”

“If you are feeling unwell or have suffered an injury that does not require urgent attention, please call the NHS 111 telephone health assessment service free of charge from any phone. When you call 111 you will be assessed, given advice and directed straight away to the local service that can help you best,” said Dr Charlton.

You can call 111 if: