Devon emergency departments under ‘extreme pressure’

Allcorn said it was “really important” to make sure the sickest patients were prioritised.

“Therefore, we ask that at this time unless you are a carer or if the patient who is coming to the hospital is particularly distressed, that those who accompany patients do not to come into the Emergency Department,” he said.

“We need the seating spaces for patients to sit down and be comfortable.”

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust said the emergency department at Torbay Hospital was “incredibly busy”.

“Only use our emergency department if you need life-saving care for conditions such as chest pain, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness or severe bleeding,” it said.