Fire at Southampton General Hospital Forces Service Adjustments Across Hampshire

A fire at Southampton General Hospital on Sunday morning, 1 February, continues to have a significant impact on services across the region, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight has confirmed.

Thanks to the swift response of emergency services and hospital staff, the fire was extinguished quickly, and patients were safely evacuated. Hospital teams, supported by partner organisations, are now working to restore normal services. However, capacity at the hospital is currently reduced by more than 200 beds.

Dr Lara Alloway, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, warned that the reduced capacity would be felt beyond Southampton and could create challenges across the local health and care system, particularly during one of the busiest periods of the year.

She asked the public to support the health and social care system by using services appropriately. Dr Alloway said:

“Please only attend emergency departments if your condition is life- or limb-threatening. Continue to use your GP services as normal, and consider pharmacy services or Urgent Treatment Centres for minor illnesses and injuries.”

Pharmacies in the region can now provide prescription medication for seven common conditions without a GP appointment, while Urgent Treatment Centres and Minor Injury Units remain available for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.

Dr Alloway also urged the public to support hospital discharge plans for patients ready to return home, helping to free up vital beds for those in urgent need of care. With norovirus circulating, she advised that hospital visits should be avoided if visitors are unwell.

NHS 111 continues to offer guidance on accessing the right care, either online or by phone.

This is a challenging time, and Dr Alloway expressed her gratitude to hospital staff and the local community for their continued support and understanding.