The Rapid Response to Acute Illness (RRAILS) Programme is a quality and service improvement initiative which is participated in by all Welsh healthcare organisations including the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) and Velindre Cancer Centre. The aims of the programme were and are: Implementing the National Early Warning Score (NEWS) as standard in all clinical areas in all 18 acute hospitals. Quantifying the incidence of sepsis and acute deterioration in the non Critical Care setting. Improving reliability of systems for identification, escalation and treatment of sepsis. Demonstrably improving outcomes from sepsis and other causes of acute deterioration.