Health and care leaders in Gloucestershire are predicting a challenging winter, but say their services are working more closely than ever before to plan ahead and make best use of all available resources.

They have just published their winter plan, 'Working with you through winter,' which outlines the raft of measures being put in place to help services and staff to take the strain over the coming months, including investing in staff, services and beds, ward space and discharge areas.

The public are also being urged to follow practical tips to help them stay well wherever possible and work alongside the local services to support the most vulnerable.

Dr Andy Seymour, chief medical officer at NHS Gloucestershire, said: "Due to the pressure already being experienced by health and care teams, rising levels of seasonal illness and the complex needs of many service users, this will be a difficult winter for sure.

"We are doing all we can to plan in advance and ensure we have a strong plan that strengthens our ability to cope, respond as one at times of peak pressure and maintain the very best care for service users. We also want to support people in their homes or as close to home as possible."

Dr Faye Noble, consultant in emergency medicine at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Our comprehensive plan is about putting service users at the heart of all we do. Despite the inevitable pressures that will face health and care services this winter, our priority is ensuring we have the best possible measures in place to maintain high quality care and work more seamlessly across our health and care family.

"Whilst setting out our proactive plans, we're also being honest about the scale of the challenge. We would like to thank our fantastic teams across Gloucestershire who continue to work tirelessly to support service users every day under significant pressure.

"We are urging people to think carefully about how they access services this winter, particularly when it's not a medical emergency, and continue to follow our simple campaign messages to get the right support and care in the right place."

Professor Sarah Scott, executive director, adult social care, wellbeing and communities at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "This winter, the NHS and social care services in Gloucestershire are working more closely than ever before with an emphasis on home first, helping people to avoid unnecessary hospital stays, and supporting them to recover in the most appropriate place once they are ready to leave hospital."

Siobhan Farmer, director of public health at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "Getting vaccinated remains the best way to protect against Covid-19 and seasonal viruses. If you are eligible for a Covid booster, flu jab, or both, I'd urge you to take up the offer as soon as possible.

"We know there is a lot to think about as we head into this winter, including the cost of living. Whether it's prioritising your mental health, eating well, staying active, keeping warm or looking out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, our Stay Well This Winter campaign will provide links to a wealth of information and resources."

Dr Seymour added: "If you or a loved one are starting to feel unwell, we'd recommend getting early advice at your community pharmacy, particularly if you have a long-term health condition.

"If you are ill or injured and not sure where to turn, the local ASAP Glos NHS App and website and 111.nhs.uk can guide you to the right support and services. The 111 phone service can also provide advice and book you into local NHS services if needed."