Summary
A BBC investigation found that over 52,000 patients in north-west England waited more than 24 hours to be admitted to hospital wards last year. The delays, known as "corridor care," happen because there are not enough beds available. The Royal College of Nursing views this as a national emergency and urges the government to change the situation.
Key Facts
- Over 52,000 patients in north-west England waited more than 24 hours to be admitted from A&E in 2025.
- "Corridor care" involves patients on trolleys or chairs due to a lack of available beds in hospital wards.
- NHS England reports the current winter as its busiest, with rising demand over several years.
- Delays of over 12 hours to be admitted from A&E have become common, with many waits extending to several days.
- In 2025, nearly 18% of patients from A&E endured long waits for hospital admission.
- The Royal College of Nursing calls the situation a "national emergency."
- NHS staff face significant pressure and emotional stress due to these delays.
- Even during warmer months, many patients waited longer than 24 hours for a hospital bed.
