In North Shields this week we have started ground investigation works after a report of possible mining related damage to two homes. Due to access issues it was necessary to use a crane to deliver a drilling rig to the back garden of one of the properties so that ground samples can be taken and examined to see if the cause of the damage is due to historical mining in the area. We have also installed monitoring equipment at the properties to provide reassurance to the residents. We would like to thank local residents for their patience and understanding whilst the drilling rig was being delivered. Our Public Safety and Subsidence Team respond to hundreds of similar incidents every year. If you suspect a mining hazard, please contact our 24/7/365 Hazard Line on 0800 288 4242.

Like other hospitals across the south west, the RUH is currently very busy. This includes patients in the Emergency Department and those needing inpatient care. As cases of flu have risen in the community, we have also seen an increasing number of patients testing positive. We are currently caring for a significant number of patients with flu. Our teams are working tirelessly across the RUH, and with our partner organisations, to ensure people get the care they need in a timely manner. We are asking people to help us do that by using the right service for your needs, which won’t always be at hospital. Please consider your healthcare options to get to the right service, at the right time: 🏡 Self Care - Treat an upset stomach, cold, or cuts and grazes at home. 💊 Pharmacy - Ask your pharmacist about sinusitis, a sore throat, ear ache, impetigo, shingles or a UTI. 📱 NHS 111 - Use NHS 111 for urgent medical advice, 24/7. 🤒 GP Surgery - Make an appointment at your GP Surgery for ongoing health concerns and persistent symptoms. 🏥 Urgent Treatment Centres or Minor Incident Units - Go to the UTC or MIU for injuries or issues that are urgent but not life-threatening. 🚑 A&E or 999 - Go to A&E or call 999 for life-threatening emergencies, like chest pain.

Following recent flooding, #TeamEA have been working through the week to protect communities across the country. 1 - Operating the Didsbury Flood Storage Basin in Manchester. 2 - Clearing debris from flood screens in Anglia 3 - Deploying demountable defences in Northwich 4 - Pumping flood water at Ratcliffe on Soar Flood alerts remain active in some places. Keep yourself safe, check your flood risk: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/

⚠️ Please be aware of this important update from our Somerset hospitals today: https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/?news=extreme-pressures-on-our-services

⚠️ Please be aware of this important update from our Somerset hospitals today: https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/?news=extreme-pressures-on-our-services https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/?news=extreme-pressures-on-our-services

There are many minor illnesses that can affect anyone over the winter months. Find simple, helpful advice here: https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/news/how-to-treat-common-winter-illnesses/