A&E wait times of over 12 hours 'at highest level'

THE number of people stuck in A&E for more than 12 hours in February was at its highest level for that time of year.

- By DAVID DUBAS-FISHER & HELENA VESTY

A total of 54,649 patients spent more than 12 hours in A&E in England last month from a decision to admit to being admitted.

That's the highest number on record for the month of February, up from 47,623 in 2025 and 44,417 in 2024.

The number is, however, down compared to January when a record 71,517 people were stuck in A&E for more than 12 hours. Last month's total is the third highest number on record.

A&E departments have seen an improvement in the number of people being treated inside four hours, though.