27/01/2026
Due to increased pressures across our sites (Royal Preston Hospital and Chorley and South Ribble Hospital), for the second time in recent weeks, we have taken the decision to escalate to the highest level of alert. This allows us to be able to take additional steps to maintain safe services for our patients and help us cope with the growing demands.
Operations Pressure Escalation Levels (OPEL) is a method used by the NHS to measure the stress, demand and pressure a hospital is under, with OPEL 4 representing the highest escalation level. We are currently at OPEL 4.
As always, patient safety must take priority and we need to take action to make sure that those who are more clinically urgent get the help they need as quickly as possible.
There are some immediate actions being taken by Trust teams and our partners.
Our hospitals are extremely busy so please make sure that you choose the right NHS service for your needs. If you're not sure which service is right for you, call 111 or visit https://111.nhs.uk
A huge thank you to all our colleagues, who are working exceptionally hard under pressure.
Find out more on our website here ⬇️
https://www.lancsteachinghospitals.nhs.uk/news/article/860
