As a vital emergency service that provides life-saving care and treatment to members of the public all year round, December 25 will be like any other normal day for many of the staff of Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Staff working as part of our emergency ambulance service, including those taking 999 calls in our Emergency Operations Centre, know the commitment required to work as part of a 24/7 emergency service which means working over the Christmas period when many will be enjoying the festivities at home with family and friends.

Our teams will also be manning the 24/7 NHS 111 service, offering advice and help for those who have an urgent healthcare need.

I encourage people to ease the pressure on our busy staff by helping themselves, looking after each other and staying safe to avoid the need to call an ambulance – something no-one wants during this festive time. Stock up on medication to manage common health conditions, make sure you pack your medication if you’re going away, take care when out and about, keep warm and ensure you drink responsibly.

A dedicated page on our website yas.nhs.uk contains details of local walk-in centres and minor injury units across the region.

David Whiting, Chief Executive, Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust