Kent hospital declares critical incident with all beds full and A&E facing extremely long waits

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 September 2026 · last updated 30 September 2026.

East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust declared a critical incident at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford after every bed across its six hospitals filled up and emergency department attendance hit exceptional levels. Chief nursing officer Sarah Hayes said the trust was beginning to see flu and seasonal infections, warning the situation could worsen as winter approaches. The public has been urged to attend A&E only for life-threatening emergencies and to use NHS 111, GPs or pharmacies instead.

Hayes said the trust hoped pressure would ease within 24 to 48 hours but warned of more strain ahead as flu season takes hold.

Patients warned to expect an 'extremely long wait' at A&E unless their condition is life-threatening, with planned appointments expected to continue unless the trust contacts them directly.

The trust is working with partners across Kent and Medway to discharge patients ready to leave, freeing up capacity — but said beds remain completely full with no sign of immediate relief.