16 January 2026

Business Continuity at Eastbourne DGH stepped down

We have now stepped down from Business Continuity arrangements following a period of exceptionally high demand, thanks to the sustained efforts of our staff, system partners and local communities.

Teams at Eastbourne District General Hospital worked intensively to manage extreme operational pressures, supported by our Community Services teams, whose work has been critical in reducing demand on hospital services. Colleagues at Conquest Hospital also continued to deliver safe, high-quality care while managing significant levels of activity.

Together, these efforts ensured that our Emergency Departments continued to operate safely during a time of very high attendance.

We would also like to thank our local communities and health and care partners. By using the most appropriate NHS services, including NHS 111, general practice, pharmacies and urgent treatment centres, the public has helped to ease pressure on hospital services. Partners across the local system have worked closely with us to support timely discharges and reduce avoidable admissions.

While immediate pressures have eased, services remain busy. We continue to encourage people to use the most appropriate NHS service for their needs, helping to ensure that emergency care remains available for those who need it most. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our communities as we continue to manage high demand.