RESIDENTS in Reading are being asked to help relieve pressure on the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust while it deals with a burst pipe.
The hospital had a water pipe burst in the early hours of Sunday, April 23, and has subsequently redirected non-urgent patients.
Updates from the trust say that it is facing “great pressure” and has requested that only those with “life-threatening” emergencies, such as severe bleeding or suspected heart attacks or strokes, use the hospital.
It also encourages those with less urgent cases to contact 111 or to consult 111online.
The urgent care centre in Broad Street Mall is taking walk-in appointments and is treating other minor illnesses while the incident is being dealt with.
Visitors are also being asked to reschedule, with “minimal” visiting to the northern block.
Some exceptions have been made, such as for birthing partners, and
Following the burst water pipe, the hospital reported a number of power cuts to areas of the hospital, and back-up generators were being used to restore power.
The Trust released a statement on social media on Sunday, which read: “The Royal Berkshire hospital had a burst water pipe early this morning and whilst we continue to sort things out we are restricting visiting for the time being.
“Carers, and people visiting end of life patients, are still able to come into the hospital as normal. But we are asking other visitors to reschedule their visits if possible.
“Our patients are all safe and being well cared for and we thank you for your understanding. We will update you on visiting arrangements as soon as we can.”
The Urgent Care Center in Broad Street Mall is located on the first floor, open from 8am-8pm every day.
Full information about using the service is available via: readingurgentcarecentre.co.uk
Those needing medical advice can also consult 111 via: 111.nhs.uk
