British Red Cross report - Nowhere else to turn: Exploring high intensity use of Accident and Emergency services (November 2021)

Summary

This report by the British Red Cross highlights the impact of deprivation and inequality on high intensity use of accident and emergency services (A&E), and the additional cost and strain this puts on these services. It shows that people from the most deprived areas of the UK and people with mental health issues are more likely to be in poor health and are most likely to attend A&E frequently. The report calls for better support for people who frequently attend A&E because they feel they have 'nowhere else to turn'.

Content

The report makes the following recommendations:

1. Putting in place more dedicated ‘High Intensity Use’ services across the country. Integrated Care Systems should develop strategies for addressing high intensity use across their areas, ensuring that there is adequate provision to meet need across acute settings, with a particular focus on areas of deprivation.
2. Improving access to community-based support, to prevent people reaching crisis point. Investment is needed in VCSE provision linked to social prescribing and other key services, such as community mental health. Training and support should be put in place for GPs and other health professionals to identify and respond to those at risk of high intensity use.
3. Taking action to address health inequalities and wider determinants that affect people’s health. The British Red Cross is calling on the Prime Minister to commission a national cross-government strategy to reduce health inequalities.