Channel 4’s 999 Undercover: NHS in Crisis drops tonight, exposing the shocking turmoil strangling UK ambulance services. Hidden cameras inside the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) control room in Medway reveal a desperate battle to handle emergency 999 calls.
Undercover Footage Shows Ambulance Service on the Brink
An undercover reporter went undercover as a call handler at SECAmb’s 999 centre from May to July 2025. The footage captures frontline workers overwhelmed by relentless pressure and soaring stress. SECAmb slammed the documentary, saying it was filmed without permission and they never had a chance to fact-check before it aired.
Still, the Trust admits the film shines a light on NHS struggles but insists all staff identities were protected and Ofcom rules followed to the letter.
SECAmb Hits Back: ‘Proud Despite Crushing Pressure’
“We’re proud of our control centre teams who manage nearly a million emergency calls every year under relentless pressure,” a SECAmb spokesperson said.
“Meeting national targets, especially for urgent Category 2 calls and mental health emergencies, remains a massive challenge.
“Since a tough 2022 CQC report, we’ve made major progress and are fully focused on urgent care goals.
“We’re launching urgent care hubs and virtual services to tackle rising demand more sustainably.”
Ambulance Staff Battling a Crisis Behind the Scenes
SECAmb praised their Emergency Operations Centre crew for handling thousands of emergency calls daily amid mounting pressure. Patients or staff with concerns can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service at [email protected] or call 0300 1239 242. Complaints about the filming should be directed to Ofcom.
This hard-hitting documentary leaves no stone unturned. Britain’s paramedics and call handlers are facing their toughest fight yet — and they’re not giving up.
