North East Ambulance Service prepares for 'Black Eye Friday' surge in alcohol-related incidents
North East Ambulance Service and NHS partners are preparing for one of the busiest nights of the year - ‘Black Eye Friday’.
Traditionally falling on the Friday before Christmas, this night sees a sharp rise in alcohol-related injuries and assaults, placing significant pressure on emergency services.
Last year, North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) received over 4,300 calls to 111 and 999 and attended over 1,200 incidents on Black Eye Friday.
Head of emergency, preparedness, resilience and response (EPRR) at the North East Ambulance Service, Stu Holliday, said: “When someone needs our service, we want to have the right resources available to respond.
“Winter is always busy for health services but particularly over the festive period like Black Eye Friday. The public can help us protect the services for those who need it the most.
“We want everyone to have a good time, but don’t ruin your fun by ending up in the back of an ambulance.
“Look after each other and make sure you stay safe and have plans to get home.
"Please remember to use 999 and A&E for emergencies only.
“And if it’s not an emergency, please always consult 111 online first. If you do think you need to go to hospital, consider whether you're able to make your own way there, if it safe to do so.”
Stu added: “Finally, please respect our staff and NHS colleagues, they are working hard and strive to give the best care, sometimes in very challenging circumstances.”
Dr Neil O’Brien, local GP and chief medical officer for the NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “This time of year is traditionally the busiest time for our services, and this year will be combined with the fact that many of our resident doctors are taking part in strike action – so services will be very stretched.
"It's so important that we make sure that our hospitals and 999 services are kept free to look after those who really do need emergency care.
"Avoidable incidents at this time of year, often linked to drinking too much, put a major strain on all health services.
"Enjoy the festivities, but please stay safe and remember to limit your drinking – as you don’t want to spend your Christmas in A&E!"