Doctors: clubs should employ paramedics

A&E doctors have called for nightclubs to employ paramedics to take the pressure off hospitals.

But the trade has expressed fears that it would be an "over-reaction" and is an example of the pressure being put on services by budget cuts.

Some operators do already employ paramedics at busy clubs or at specific events but a report by BBC's Newsbeat team said that two out of five big operators had cut back on the number employed in favour of first aiders.

John Heyworth, the President of the College of Emergency Medicine — which represents A&E doctors, said many of those who turn up at A&E don't need to be there.

He also said they put a strain on the NHS. "They need a lot of resources," he told the BBC.

"They are often disruptive — or their friends are — and this puts a huge strain on the NHS, which frankly we could do without."

Unnecessary​

However, nightclub trade body Noctis said it was unnecessary to mandate that clubs employ paramedics.

"Late night operators are doing a good job in terms of retailing alcohol responsibly,' said executive director Paul Smith.

"There are a whole host of reasons why people get in to trouble late at night. There is still a big issue with pre-loading, legal highs and drugs.

"If there is a club that has to constantly call out and ambulance, then there is clearly an issue there with that club.

"But there is no need for any blanket need to employ a paramedic."

He added: "I am not surprised by this call because everyone is now looking at their budgets.

"People think club owners have pots of cash but the closure figures reveal a different reality."