THE problem facing our NHS is simple, we are living longer than previous generations.

This is due to a variety of reasons, including anything from new drugs and treatments to safer roads.

However, the ageing population means that our hospitals are routinely inundated with so-called 'bed blockers'.

These are elderly patients who suffer from winter illnesses, such as flu, who are held in hospital for far longer than they need to be.

It is the main reason behind the winter crises that wreak havoc on our hospitals every year.

It has become a common sight to see people on trolleys in hospital corridors, waiting for beds that are often occupied by older patients.

Every winter, hospital staff are asked to work extra shifts and to cancel holiday.

It is an annual cycle that would wear down even the most enthusiastic worker and it is no surprise that hospital bosses are struggling to fill vacancies for nurses and doctors.

The Government has tried to alleviate the annual pressures by investing in social care, to ensure that older patients can be moved out of hospitals.

In today's newspaper we have reported on the latest funding announcement.

The county will receive £2,384,625 to improve local social care provision for this winter.

Worcestershire Royal Hospital is also due to increase its bed numbers by opening up extra wards.

However, some groups have shared their fears about this winter.

Healthwatch Worcestershire, a patients' watchdog, has raised concerns that the county's accident and emergency departments are not ready.

The chairman of the watchdog told the BBC that it may be necessary to build new temporary buildings at Worcestershire Royal Hospital - to cope with the influx of patients.

Many often claim that the hospital is simply too small - and a growing population will only place extra pressure on beds at the hospital.

Worcester's emergency department hit national headlines in January 2017 after two people died there, with one experiencing delays in care.

It was a wake-up call for the city.

We must find solutions to prevent another winter crisis in Worcester.