
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has raised concerns about the growing use of temporary escalation spaces in NHS hospitals, warning that vulnerable patients placed in makeshift care areas may face increased risks.
At Royal Cornwall Hospital, a recent unannounced inspection highlighted multiple safety issues linked to the use of non-standard clinical areas during times of high demand. While full details of the inspection are included in public board papers, concerns included delays in care and insufficient staffing to meet patient needs in corridor and overflow zones.
The Trust has acknowledged the findings and reported that immediate improvements have been introduced. The CQC noted efforts to improve patient flow and commended frontline staff for their resilience under pressure, but emphasised the need for robust risk management when escalation spaces are used.
These concerns come amid national efforts to manage rising emergency care demand. Several NHS trusts have resorted to using areas not traditionally intended for care , such as waiting rooms, corridors, or “fit to sit” spaces, to accommodate patients when A&E departments are full. The practice, once considered a short-term measure, is becoming increasingly normalised, raising questions about the long-term safety implications.