Latest NHS figures on delayed discharges reveal "living nightmare"

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The Liberal Democrats have warned that patients are facing a "living nightmare," after the latest NHS figures revealed almost 7,000 cases a day last week of delayed discharges.

This is where patients are ready to leave hospital but unable to do so because the necessary social care or other support isn't available.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP said:

"These figures reveal the horrific consequences of years of Conservative neglect.

"It is a living nightmare as hospitals run out of beds, patients are treated in corridors and ambulances are left queuing for hours outside A&E.

"Conservative ministers cannot continue to bury their heads in the sand as local health and care services collapse in front of our eyes.

"We need a proper NHS rescue plan so that people are no longer left terrified about what will happen if they fall sick or get injured."

ENDS

Notes to Editor

The latest NHS figures on delayed discharges and handover delays in the week to 15th January 2023 are available here.