Patients are urged to use NHS responsibly

NHS services in Halton are sharing a rare glimpse behind the scenes in a bid to encourage residents to think about using them responsibly.

Organisations have teamed up across Halton, Warrington, St Helens and Knowsley for the #letsdoittogether campaign to show the work being done in accident and emergency (A&E) departments, urgent care and treatments centres, pharmacies and general practices.

Items posted on social media will include live updates, interviews with staff and health advice.

The campaign was initially launched in December 2018 to provide a glimpse into life at the front line of the NHS.

As part of the initiative, residents are being encouraged to use NHS services responsibly and to keep A&E departments free for those who really need them.

Dr Andrew Davies, clinical chief officer for NHS Halton and Warrington clinical commissioning groups, said: “We are excited to launch this campaign with our local NHS colleagues to demonstrate not only the challenges faced by the NHS each winter but also the incredible support and care provided by our local NHS staff.

“We want as many people as possible to support the campaign on Facebook and Twitter so we can spread the message about the best use of NHS services.

“This will help staff to help you.”

Chris Evans, Warrington And Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust chief operating officer, said: “The Let’s Do it Together campaign has been a great way to give an insight in to the behind the scenes of our busy accident and emergency department, providing education on appropriate use of our services and also supporting our local population to make right choices when it comes to their healthcare.

“This year we are extending the behind scenes to our urgent care centre, based at Halton Hospital, which is a great local resource for patients who do not require our accident and emergency department, but do need urgent treatment.”

Colin Scales, Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust chief executive, said: “We are very pleased to be supporting this important local campaign and are committed to helping people choose the best available NHS treatment for themselves and their families this winter.”