"Doing such a wonderful job under intolerable conditions"

Recently had to take my husband to A&E, sudden onset of a new illness I don’t want to disclose, but we were sent over by our GP. 

I cannot believe the conditions and pressures the staff are working under. Initially a 7-8 hour wait, this became indefinite due to the hospital having no beds, A&E being full, and several ambulances having to treat very sick people out the front of the department. The Consultant had to come out and update everyone, they were so kind but utterly exhausted and, I think, not a little frustrated at the situation, which was further exacerbated shortly after by someone being brought in, possibly under the influence of something, whilst cuffed to the trolley still having to be restrained by 4 police officers and 2 paramedics. So dangerous for staff, and frightening for sick people waiting to be seen.

Overhearing some of the waiting room chat, which was full with no seats left, it was clear some people were there purely because they couldn’t see a GP. Not good enough. It’s an emergency department, how can we get it through to people not to misuse this essential service? Also dismayed to see a couple of clearly ill people sitting on the floor because some seats were taken up by people who literally seemed to have an entourage with them - why??? It’s not a social meeting place!

I could have cried for the staff. Hats off to them, they powered on through. Heroes, the lot of them.My husband is now safely ensconced in the Surgical department, being so well looked after by the whole care team in Ward 18.

We are so grateful, I’d like them all to be made aware of this, but also, please make A&E aware that we know they are doing such a wonderful job under intolerable conditions. I sometimes despair at the state of our wonderful NHS, but remain grateful for it all the same. Thank you.