The UK government has announced £140 million for urgent care services as the NHS prepares for increased demand during the winter months.

The funding will support 14 urgent care schemes, with a further 25 sites expected to open for winter, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.

The investment is intended to strengthen local services, help patients receive timely treatment and reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments as seasonal illnesses place additional demands on the health system.

Winter often brings higher numbers of patients with flu, respiratory infections and other conditions requiring urgent medical attention. Health services must also manage ambulance demand, hospital admissions and the challenge of discharging patients who are ready to leave hospital but need suitable care arrangements.

The additional schemes are designed to give patients more options for urgent treatment and help hospitals manage demand more effectively.

The key test will be whether the extra capacity translates into shorter waits and smoother patient care. The impact will depend on how quickly services become operational, staffing availability and the level of demand during the winter period.

The announcement comes as NHS organisations across England continue preparing for seasonal pressure while trying to maintain routine treatment and emergency services.