Page updated: 12 Jan 2010
Latest information on services affected by severe weather conditions
Trafford PCT
The NHS is urging people in Trafford to think carefully before venturing out, as the region experiences heavy snowfall and icy conditions. Snowfall and ice are making travel conditions treacherous and having an impact on the services that the NHS is able to provide.
Director of Public Health at Trafford Primary Care Trust Abdul Razzaq said: "We need people to think very carefully before venturing out. Don't go out unless you have to, and check in on elderly neighbours who may need help. And remember that 999 services are for life-threatening illnesses and emergencies."
NHS organisations have plans in place to deal with spikes in demand. It is important that NHS services remain as flexible as possible, and teams of healthcare professionals are working together to manage the impact of these adverse weather conditions and maintain essential services.
The ambulance service is stringently prioritising all of its 999 calls and despatch resources to life-threatening cases only.
If anyone needs any medical advice, they should contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.
Most GPs, health clinics, dentists and pharmacies in Trafford have resumed normal operating hours, however there are a few that are operating a restricted service, so we do advise that anyone planning to make a trip out should ring ahead before starting their journey.
New hotline set up for vulnerable residents
Trafford Council, in partnership with Trafford Carers Centre, has set up an advice line to offer help to the Borough's more vulnerable residents.
Services include basic home food deliveries and practical support particularly for older people and those who are vulnerable and isolated in the community.
The services are being provided on a voluntary basis through a number of willing citizens, local faith organisations and V-Involved, a voluntary scheme with over 600 volunteers aged 16 to 18 living in Trafford.
The local advice line will be open at the following times:
- From 9am to 4.30pm today, Friday 8 January.
- From 10am to 2pm this Saturday and Sunday.
- And if the bad weather continues, from 9am to 4.30pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday of next week and 9.30am to 8pm on Tuesday and Thursday next week.
If you think you would benefit from this service, know someone who would or would like to volunteer to assist local people, please contact Trafford Carers Centre's Advice line on 0161 861 0101.
Trafford Healthcare NHS Trust
All clinics at Trafford General Hospital, Altrincham General Hospital and Stretford Memorial Hospital are now running again and the hospitals are all open as normal.
Patients are still being asked not to use the Accident and Emergency unit at Trafford Hospital unless it is a genuine emergency, as additional winter pressures are making the hospitals very busy. See your GP or pharmacist, or call NHS Direct, if you feel unwell.
Trafford Provider Services
All services are now operating as normal. Clinics are open and urgent home visits continue to take place. In the event of any unexpected disruption to non-urgent appointments, patients will be contacted by telephone to rearrange appointments.
Click here to find out the latest information on council services.