Leeds Community Ambulatory Paediatric Service (CAPS) Reopens to Support Managing Winter Pressures

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As part of the system-wide response to the anticipated rise in paediatric respiratory cases this winter, Leeds GP Confederation are pleased to announce the reopening of the Leeds Community Ambulatory Paediatric Service (CAPS) on October 21st 2024. The service will run until March 28th 2025.

CAPS provides community-based same-day appointments for paediatric patients aged 12 weeks and above to under 16 years of age, with acute respiratory symptoms who may otherwise present to emergency or urgent care services. By reopening CAPS, we aim to alleviate pressure on these services across Leeds.

CAPS previously ran from 23rd January 2023 to 28th April 2024, and was a collaboration between Leeds GP Confederation and system partners, including Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT), and the Leeds Office of the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.

During this time CAPS received excellent feedback from GP surgeries, patients and the Emergency Department at LTHT, stating the service was ‘invaluable’ and ‘an excellent resource for the city.’ The service was also highly commended in the ‘Making an Impact in Primary Care’ award at the Primary Care Impact Awards.

Please see below key updates and operating details of CAPS:

Key Updates for This Year:

  • Referrals from GP practices will now require clinician triage prior to booking, for a renewed focus on patients who would be otherwise likely to present to emergency or urgent care services.
  • Expanded Referral Sources: In addition to GP practices, referrals can come from LTHT PCAL, NHS 111, Local Care Direct (LCD) and the Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS). In addition to supporting general practice, we are hoping to reduce pressures in our partner emergency and urgent treatment services to help reduce system pressures.

Operating Details:

  • Location: Harehills Community Health Centre, Leeds, LS9 6EZ
  • Operating Hours: Monday to Friday 1 PM to 8 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Appointment Type: All face to face.

If you have any questions outside of CAPS opening hours, require assistance with the referral pathways or any aspect of CAPS, please do not hesitate to contact our Operations Team on 0113 8873899. They are available to provide support and discuss any queries you may have.