The A&E department at Margate’s QEQM Hospital is currently in darkness following a power outage.
Ambulances are reportedly having to divert to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford as the department is unable to accept any more patients. People in A&E have told The Isle of Thanet News that doctors and nurses have been reduced to working by torchlight and mobile phone lights.
There are reports that the power cables appear to have been cut, possibly by workmen. Some patients have been told the power may not be back on until midnight.
Councillor Karen Constantine said there should be a contingency plan in place, adding: “QEQM should have back up generators sufficient to keep it going. It should also have a ‘business continuity’ plan that is now operational. I hope staff and patients are coping and that the power is up and running soon.”
UPDATE: Kent Fire and Rescue has now provided emergency flood lighting. Other areas of the hospital are unaffected.
East Kent Hospitals is asking people not to attend A&E.
UPDATE: 10.48pm – Power restored.
Part of the QEQM Hospital, Margate, is without power. The hospital’s A&E is affected. Our contingency plans are in place to keep patients safe until power is restored. Please don't attend the A&E, keep ambulances free for life-threatening conditions. If in doubt call NHS111
— East Kent Hospitals (@EKHUFT) February 20, 2019
