Nursing staff are collapsing on shift and patients are “suffering” in facilities “not fit for humans” amid extreme heat caused by climate change, the Royal College of Nursing has warned.

Scores of calls to the RCN’s advice line during this year’s record-breaking summer have revealed hospital wards, care homes and offices are regularly topping 30 degrees Celsius.

The college says extreme heat is making some services “impossible and inhumane” places to work and receive care in, calling for an urgent programme to heat-proof facilities.

The RCN is also demanding the government reduce emissions and play a leading role on the global stage in the fight against global warming. and a proper plan to reduce emissions produced by health and care services as well.