We provide emergency care for our local communities across north east London and beyond. Our patients come first, and every year we care for more than 300,000 emergency patients.
Need care this winter?
A&E isn’t the only choice. Dr Ben Bloom, consultant in emergency medicines, explains how patients are prioritised and which services can help with common problems.
There are also simple steps you can take to stay well this winter, including keeping vaccinations up to date, staying warm and active, checking in on vulnerable neighbours and family, and ensuring prescriptions are stocked up early.
Should I attend A&E?
A&E is for serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies. It's important that you don't delay seeking treatment when you need it. With access to the very latest therapies and treatments, and some of Britain's leading specialists, we are ready to care for you and your loved ones.
Please visit when to go to A&E. If you are not sure and need further advice, check your symptoms online.
Where to find us
Access the right care
If you’re unsure where to go for medical help, NHS 111 can advise you on what to do next, including support for symptoms, injuries and medicines.
For urgent mental health support, call 111 and choose option 2 to speak to a trained professional. The service is available for all ages, including those concerned about a loved one.
Pharmacists can also help by providing advice on various health issues, including coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections, and general aches and pains.
Visiting a minor injuries unit
If you have a minor illness or injury and it cannot wait until your GP is open you can visit one of our minor injuries unit or urgent treatment centres. Find out if you should visit.
Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)
SDEC provides same day specialist care for emergency patients, without admitting them to a hospital bed.
You may be referred to SDEC when you attend A&E, or sent by your GP or an ambulance. SDEC is available at Newham, Whipps Cross, and The Royal London Hospital.
Additional needs
For adults and young patients with additional needs attending A&E can be overwhelming. When you arrive please inform reception and your treatment team of any additional needs so that we can support you exactly how you need.
Our A&E at The Royal London Hospital is the first in London to be accredited by the National Autistic Society.
We know that A&E is a noisy, bright, unpredictable and highly stimulating environment. As a department we welcome all adults with additional needs, and our staff are keen to support and champion all.
We will do our best to place patients with additional needs in spaces where light and noise can be more controlled, although sometimes there may be a delay in identifying and making this space available when we are very busy.
Need care this winter?
A&E isn’t the only choice. Dr Ben Bloom, consultant in emergency medicines, explains how patients are prioritised and which services can help with common problems.
There are also simple steps you can take to stay well this winter, including keeping vaccinations up to date, staying warm and active, checking in on vulnerable neighbours and family, and ensuring prescriptions are stocked up early.
